Ziegler Creek Z-5-3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ziegler Creek Z-5-3 is a vital water resource structure located in Otoe, Nebraska, specifically in the city of Talmage.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 33 feet high and plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 496 acre-feet and a normal storage of 38 acre-feet, this dam serves as a key component in managing water flow and mitigating potential hazards.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Ziegler Creek Z-5-3 is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2016. With a drainage area of 1.5 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1553 cubic feet per second, this dam is a crucial asset in protecting the local community from potential flooding events.
Situated along the TR-Little Nemaha River, Ziegler Creek Z-5-3 not only serves as a flood risk reduction measure but also has other purposes that contribute to the overall water resource management in the area. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam is designed to withstand hydraulic pressures and ensure efficient water storage and release. As a primary water infrastructure in the region, Ziegler Creek Z-5-3 remains a key player in maintaining the balance of water resources and climate resilience in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
950 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE NEMAHA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
496 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
24100cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Salt Creek At Roca
|
5cfs |
Stevens Creek Nr. Lincoln
|
3cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
4630cfs |
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.
Ziegler Creek Z-5-3