Big Indian Creek 6-E Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Big Indian Creek 6-E, located in Gage County, Nebraska, is a critical flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet, providing protection for the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a drainage area of 1 square mile, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.

Despite its importance, Big Indian Creek 6-E is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a hazard potential rated as low. The dam's last inspection took place in May 2019, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every five years. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains a key infrastructure for flood management in the area. With its stone core and soil foundation, this structure represents a crucial piece of the local water resource and climate resilience landscape.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Big Indian Creek 6-E lies in its role as a flood risk reduction measure in the region. With its strategic location along the Big Indian Creek, this dam serves as a key element in protecting the surrounding community from potential inundation. However, the current poor condition of the structure highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding against floods. As stakeholders in water resource management, it is essential to support efforts to maintain and improve the resilience of structures like Big Indian Creek 6-E for the long-term sustainability of the local ecosystem and community.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

862

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-BIG INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

420

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.