Big Indian Creek 14-B Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Big Indian Creek 14-B is a local government-owned dam in Gage, Nebraska, designed by USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Sicily Creek. With a storage capacity of 5585 acre-feet and a drainage area of 12.6 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspections, Big Indian Creek 14-B is classified as having a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of its maintenance and monitoring. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are currently unspecified, raising questions about its readiness to handle potential emergencies. With a maximum discharge capacity of 6410 cubic feet per second, it is vital for stakeholders and authorities to stay vigilant and ensure the dam's integrity to safeguard the community and environment it serves.

As an essential infrastructure for flood mitigation in the region, Big Indian Creek 14-B stands as a reminder of the critical role dams play in managing water resources and protecting against climate-related risks. Its location, design, and operational features make it a key asset in the local water management system, emphasizing the need for ongoing maintenance, monitoring, and emergency preparedness to ensure its continued effectiveness in reducing flood risks and safeguarding the community.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1297

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

SICILY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

91.5

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

12.6

Nid Storage

5585

Structural Height

45

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.