Wildhorse 5-A Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wildhorse 14-A Blackburn Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wildhorse 5-A is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Bayard, Nebraska along the E Wildhorse Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this 42-foot high earth dam serves as a key line of defense against potential flooding in the area. With a storage capacity of 2180 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 30,000 cubic feet per second, Wildhorse 5-A plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from water-related disasters.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Wildhorse 5-A is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Its satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts. The dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, serving as a critical infrastructure project within the region.
As a local government-owned structure, Wildhorse 5-A exemplifies the collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources and enhancing climate resilience. Its strategic location and design, overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, demonstrate a commitment to effective water management and disaster preparedness in Morrill County, Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1850 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
E WILDHORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
20.93 |
Nid Storage |
2180 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Wildhorse 5-A