Wilson Creek 2-H Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Wilson Creek 2-H is a critical earth dam located in Otoe, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS in 1965 for flood risk reduction along the TR N FK Little Nemaha River.


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Summary

This structure stands at 35 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 31 feet and a length of 676 feet, providing a storage capacity of 215 acre-feet to mitigate potential flooding in the region. Despite its important role in managing water resources, the dam is currently in poor condition and has a low hazard potential, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government in Dunbar, Nebraska, Wilson Creek 2-H is regulated by the NE DNR, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to uphold safety standards and compliance with regulations. The dam serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction and is constructed with stone core types on a soil foundation, covering a surface area of 10 acres with a drainage area of 0.7 square miles. With a maximum discharge capacity of 365 cubic feet per second, Wilson Creek 2-H plays a crucial role in protecting the community from potential flooding events, highlighting the importance of maintaining and improving its structural integrity for long-term resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource challenges.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of Wilson Creek 2-H in mitigating flood risks and preserving the ecological balance of the TR N FK Little Nemaha River watershed. By supporting efforts to monitor and enhance the dam's condition, as well as investing in necessary repairs and upgrades, we can ensure the continued effectiveness of this vital infrastructure for safeguarding lives, property, and natural habitats in Otoe County. Let us advocate for sustainable water management practices and resilience-building measures to protect our communities and environment from the impacts of climate change and ensure the long-term safety and well-being of all stakeholders involved.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

676

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR N FK LITTLE NEMAHA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

215

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.