Wilson Creek 7-A Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wilson Creek 1-N Wilson Creek 7-8
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wilson Creek 7-A is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in the heart of Otoe, Nebraska.
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Summary
Constructed in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and boasts a normal storage capacity of 421 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 6.1 square miles. With a structural height of 41 feet and a length of 1280 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Wilson Creek 7-A has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in November 2018. While no spillway type or width is specified, the dam's maximum discharge capacity is recorded at 5901 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective water flow management during peak flow periods. With its strategic location and significant impact on flood control in the region, Wilson Creek 7-A stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.
As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, structures like Wilson Creek 7-A play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events in Nebraska. With its earth dam design and stone core foundation, this dam represents a key asset in the state's flood risk reduction strategy. The dedication to regular inspections, maintenance, and enforcement by the Nebraska DNR ensures that Wilson Creek 7-A remains a reliable and effective barrier against potential flooding threats, providing essential protection to the local community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
1280 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
WILSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
66 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
6.1 |
Nid Storage |
2332 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
22500cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
1350cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
5580cfs |
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
532cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Camp Woodmen
|
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Riverview Marina State Rec Area
|
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Victorian Acres Campground
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Wilson Creek 7-A