Big Sandy Creek 20-6-7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Big Sandy Creek 20-6-7 is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Clay, Nebraska, designed by JEO Consulting Group, Inc.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 36.1 feet, with a hydraulic height of 36.3 feet and a structural height of 45.1 feet. Completed in 1982, it serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and other functions, with a storage capacity of 11,524 acre-feet and a drainage area of 40.7 square miles.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this dam on Big Sandy Creek plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the surrounding area. With a high hazard potential but deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2020, it underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in protecting the local community. As part of a network of water management structures in the region, it contributes to the overall climate resilience and sustainability efforts in Nebraska.

The location of Big Sandy Creek 20-6-7 in the rural landscape of Nebraska symbolizes the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its presence highlights the complex interplay between water resources management, climate adaptation, and infrastructure development in safeguarding communities against natural disasters. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding and supporting the maintenance and operation of such critical infrastructure is essential for fostering a resilient and sustainable future for all.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

2600

Dam Height

36.1

River Or Stream

BIG SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

221

Hydraulic Height

36.3

Drainage Area

40.7

Nid Storage

11524

Structural Height

45.1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.