Plum Creek 3-A Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mccune Dam Plum Creek 3-G
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Plum Creek 3-A is a vital water resource management structure located in Pawnee, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS to serve the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-PLUM CREEK river or stream.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet, with a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 35 feet. With a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.8 square miles, Plum Creek 3-A plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Plum Creek 3-A has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2017. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 73 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 14 acres. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1016 cubic feet per second, this structure ensures effective flood control measures for the community of LIBERTY. Despite its age, Plum Creek 3-A continues to meet regulatory standards and remains a key asset in maintaining water resource sustainability in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Plum Creek 3-A lies in its role as a resilient flood risk reduction infrastructure in Pawnee, Nebraska. With its reliable design and satisfactory condition, this earth dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices and the collaborative efforts of local government agencies and regulatory bodies. As we continue to navigate the challenges of climate change and water resource management, structures like Plum Creek 3-A serve as essential components in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities in the face of increasing environmental uncertainties.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
595 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Big Blue R At Marysville
|
166cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
15cfs |
Black Vermillion R Nr Frankfort
|
45cfs |
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Little Blue R At Hollenberg
|
70cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Burchard Lake State Wildlife Area
|
||
Feits Memorial Park
|
||
Rockford Lake State Rec Area
|
||
Big Indian NRD Rec Area
|
Plum Creek 3-A
Wolf - Wildcat