Upper Big Nemaha G-19 is a key water resource structure located in Gage County, Nebraska, specifically in the city of Sterling. Constructed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a normal storage capacity of 33 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Upper Big Nemaha G-19 has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition according to its most recent assessment in June 2020. It is equipped with a spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 315 cubic feet per second. With a structural height of 32 feet and a length of 997 feet, this dam is a vital infrastructure for safeguarding the community and maintaining water resource stability in the region.

Despite being a lesser-known structure, Upper Big Nemaha G-19 serves as a critical component of water resource management in the area. With its efficient design and satisfactory condition, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive infrastructure development in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in Nebraska. Climate and water resource enthusiasts alike can appreciate the vital role that Upper Big Nemaha G-19 plays in maintaining the balance between human development and environmental preservation in the region.