Dodd Dam, located in Crawford, Nebraska, is a significant earth dam designed by USDA NRCS in 1962 for flood risk reduction along the White Clay Creek. Standing at a height of 42 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 87 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 448.8 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 11 square miles. However, despite its important role in managing flood risks in the region, Dodd Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Dodd Dam is subject to state regulation and enforcement, with permitting and inspection processes in place to monitor its safety and functionality. The dam's poor condition assessment in 2020 raises concerns about its ability to effectively mitigate flood risks in the area, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management measures to address potential hazards. With a history of modifications and ongoing regulatory oversight, Dodd Dam remains a critical infrastructure for flood control in Dawes County, Nebraska.

As a key component of the flood risk reduction strategy in the region, Dodd Dam plays a vital role in protecting surrounding communities from the impacts of high water events. With its location in a significant hazard potential area and a history of poor condition assessment, it is essential for state regulators and dam owners to prioritize maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the continued effectiveness and safety of this important water resource infrastructure. As climate change brings more frequent and intense precipitation events, the proper maintenance and operation of dams like Dodd Dam are critical for safeguarding lives and properties against the increasing threat of flooding.