Pawnee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pawnee Dam, also known as Pawnee Lake, is a Federal-owned Earth-type dam located in Emerald, Lancaster County, Nebraska.


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Summary

Completed in 1965 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction, while also providing benefits for fish and wildlife pond creation and recreational activities. With a hydraulic height of 69 feet and a structural height of 71 feet, Pawnee Dam spans 5,000 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 38,300 acre-feet.

This dam poses a high hazard potential and undergoes regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages flood risks associated with Pawnee Dam by monitoring its condition, conducting necessary repairs and maintenance, and collaborating with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and evacuation procedures. In the event of severe weather events or increased water inflow, Pawnee Dam may release water to manage levels upstream or downstream, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management and preparedness.

As a critical infrastructure in the region, Pawnee Dam plays a vital role in flood control and water resource management. The US Army Corps of Engineers continues to prioritize safety measures and risk mitigation strategies to protect the surrounding community and ensure the reliable operation of this essential dam.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

5000

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH MIDDLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

737

Hydraulic Height

69

Drainage Area

36

Nid Storage

38300

Structural Height

71

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

71
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.