Upper Big Nemaha J-37 is a key water resource structure located in Johnson County, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and serves purposes of flood risk reduction and other water management functions. With a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the TR-Hooker Creek.

Managed by the local government, Upper Big Nemaha J-37 has a significant hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as per the last inspection in April 2019. With a structural height of 27 feet and a length of 725 feet, this dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 430 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, this dam continues to provide vital water management services in the region, reflecting the importance of effective infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.

As a part of the broader water infrastructure network in Nebraska, Upper Big Nemaha J-37 highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure the resilience of water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions. With a focus on flood risk reduction and water management, this dam represents a key component in the state's strategy for sustainable water resource management. By staying regulated, inspected, and maintained, structures like Upper Big Nemaha J-37 play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the long-term availability of water resources for future generations.