Box Butte, located in Dawes, Nebraska, is a federal-owned dam managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Completed in 1945, this earth dam stands at a height of 87 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Niobrara River. With a maximum storage capacity of 47,800 acre-feet and a normal storage of 31,060 acre-feet, Box Butte plays a crucial role in managing irrigation and flood control in the region.

The dam, with a structural height of 87 feet and a length of 5,508 feet, also features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 590 feet. While it has a high hazard potential, its risk assessment is considered moderate. The dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Bureau of Reclamation, ensuring its continued safe operation and maintenance. With its strategic location and significant role in water resource management, Box Butte remains a vital asset in protecting the surrounding community and environment from potential flooding events.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering marvel of Box Butte, with its stone core and soil foundation contributing to its stability. As a key player in flood risk reduction and irrigation, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water infrastructure in ensuring the safety and sustainability of communities. Its location on the Niobrara River, combined with its impressive storage capacity and controlled spillway, highlights the critical role it plays in managing water resources in the region.