Bear - Pierce - Cedar 7-J is a notable earth dam located in Gage, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1970 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Bear Creek. This dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 1069 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1110 acre-feet and serving a drainage area of 2.8 square miles. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, this structure is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and functionality in mitigating flood risks.

Owned and operated by the local government, Bear - Pierce - Cedar 7-J is situated in a crucial location to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding, with a maximum discharge capacity of 679 cubic feet per second. The dam's structure includes a stone core and soil foundation, with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a surface area of 26 acres. Despite its age, this dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, meeting state regulatory standards and maintaining a normal storage level of 97 acre-feet. Its strategic placement and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Nebraska.

As part of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in Gage County, Bear - Pierce - Cedar 7-J plays a vital role in safeguarding the local community from potential inundation events. With the oversight of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and regular state inspections, this earth dam ensures the protection of downstream areas along Bear Creek. Its satisfactory condition assessment and low hazard potential underscore its reliability in managing water resources and responding to the challenges posed by changing climate patterns. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bear - Pierce - Cedar 7-J stands as a testament to effective engineering and management practices in enhancing resilience against flood risks in Nebraska's landscape.