Aowa Creek 13-4a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Aowa Creek 13-4a is a local government-owned structure located in the state of Nebraska, specifically in Dixon County.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Silver Creek. Completed in 1981, the earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 655 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 30 acre-feet.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is rated as being in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in May 2017. The structure is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a drainage area of 3.4 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 695 cubic feet per second.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Aowa Creek 13-4a presents an interesting case study in flood risk reduction infrastructure in the Midwest. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam provides effective protection against potential inundation along the Silver Creek. Its location in the city of Ponca underscores its importance in safeguarding local communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water management, structures like Aowa Creek 13-4a play a vital role in ensuring the resilience of Nebraska's water resources.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
856 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
3.4 |
Nid Storage |
655 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Logan Creek At Wakefield
|
149cfs |
Vermillion River Nr Vermillion Sd
|
33cfs |
Missouri River At Sioux City
|
15100cfs |
Omaha Cr At Homer
|
45cfs |
Big Sioux River At Akron
|
816cfs |
Perry Creek Near Milnerville
|
25cfs |
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.
Aowa Creek 13-4a