Upper Big Nemaha L-5 is a local government-owned earthen dam located in Lancaster, Nebraska, along the TR-MID BR Big Nemaha River. Designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1971, this dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 465 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a normal storage capacity of 11 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 378 cubic feet per second. The dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and is inspected every 5 years, with a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2018.

Situated in a rural area, Upper Big Nemaha L-5 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding community from potential flood risks. With its strategic location and design, the dam provides valuable flood control measures while also serving other purposes. Owned and operated by the local government, the dam is subject to state regulations and inspections, ensuring its continued functionality and safety for the residents of Lancaster, Nebraska.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in the region, Upper Big Nemaha L-5 demonstrates the importance of proactive dam management and maintenance. With its earth dam structure and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam stands as a reliable asset for flood risk reduction and water resource management. The collaboration between the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, and local government highlights the commitment to safeguarding the community and environment from potential water-related hazards.