Big Indian Creek 11-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Gage, Nebraska, Big Indian Creek 11-A is a 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 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet, with a hydraulic height of 42 feet and a structural height of 52 feet. It has a storage capacity of 2366 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the surrounding area.

With a drainage area of 5.3 square miles, Big Indian Creek 11-A plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating potential flood hazards in the region. The dam has a low hazard potential and has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of the last inspection in October 2020. Its location along Squaw Creek and proximity to Wymore underscores its importance in protecting the local community from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Managed by local government authorities and with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, Big Indian Creek 11-A stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Nebraska. Its stone core and soil foundation contribute to its stability, ensuring its continued reliability in safeguarding the area from flood risks. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this structure serves as a prime example of how effective infrastructure can help communities adapt to and mitigate the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1210

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

SQUAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

5.3

Nid Storage

2366

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

52
       
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.