Mcdowell Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Squaw Creek Dam Alcorn Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Mcdowell Dam 1, located in Dawes, Nebraska, is a privately owned Earth dam built in 1929 for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the English Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 17 feet and a length of 400 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition and has a low hazard potential, making it a vital asset for local wildlife conservation efforts.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR), Mcdowell Dam 1 is regularly inspected, permitted, and regulated to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state standards. The dam's location in the Congressional District 03, Nebraska, provides a habitat for various aquatic species and contributes to the overall ecological health of the region. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of nearby communities.
With its historical significance and environmental impact, Mcdowell Dam 1 serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and conservation efforts. As a key feature in the local landscape, the dam not only provides a safe haven for fish and wildlife but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to appreciate and engage with nature. Its continued maintenance and monitoring are essential to preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem and safeguarding the surrounding community from potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
ENGLISH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.92 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Crawford City Park
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Fort Robinson State Park
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Soldier Creek
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Roberts Tract Campground
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Mcdowell Dam 1