Big Plum Creek Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wichelt Dam Gallagher
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Plum Creek, located in Lexington, Nebraska, is a significant water resource managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for its hydroelectric and irrigation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1941, stands at a height of 74 feet and stretches 1794 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 5164 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is considered high, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures.
Owned by a public utility, Big Plum Creek is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation. The dam serves as a crucial part of the local water supply canal system, covering a surface area of 252 acres and benefiting the surrounding community through irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. With its location in Dawson County, Nebraska, the dam plays a vital role in water management and resource sustainability in the region.
The data for Big Plum Creek highlights its significance as a key water infrastructure in Nebraska, contributing to the state's water supply and energy needs. As climate change impacts water resources, the proper management and maintenance of dams like Big Plum Creek become increasingly important to ensure the safety and reliability of water sources for both human consumption and agricultural use. With a focus on risk assessment and regulatory compliance, Big Plum Creek stands as a testament to the crucial role of water resource management in adapting to changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
1794 |
Dam Height |
74 |
River Or Stream |
Supply Canal |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
252 |
Nid Storage |
5164 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
74 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1040cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
4cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1190cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Republican River At Cambridge
|
60cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Big Plum Creek
Gallagher Canyon SRA