Big Indian Creek 5-F Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Big Indian Creek 5-F is a local government-owned earth dam located in Gage, Nebraska, along the TR-Big Indian Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 883 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving the surrounding area by controlling water flow and reducing the risk of inundation during heavy rainfall events. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Big Indian Creek 5-F plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community against potential flooding.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this dam undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a drainage area of 2.4 square miles and a maximum discharge of 992 cubic feet per second, Big Indian Creek 5-F is equipped to handle significant water flow and reduce the risk of downstream flooding. Its location in a rural area underscores the importance of water resource management and climate resilience, highlighting the critical role that dams like Big Indian Creek 5-F play in protecting communities and agricultural land from the impacts of extreme weather events.

As part of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in the region, Big Indian Creek 5-F provides valuable ecosystem services and contributes to the overall resilience of the watershed. With a focus on sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation, this dam serves as a vital asset for the community, helping to mitigate the impacts of flooding and protect both human and natural systems from the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1270

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-BIG INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

2.4

Nid Storage

883

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.