Spring Creek 4-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Spring Creek 4-1 is a vital structure located in Talmage, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the NE DNR.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1968, serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and other water resource management functions. With a height of 27.5 feet and a length of 695 feet, it provides storage for 41.8 acre-feet of water and covers a surface area of 2.1 acres. Despite its poor condition assessment in 2017, its hazard potential is rated as low, making it a crucial piece of infrastructure for the local community.

Situated in Johnson County, Nebraska, Spring Creek 4-1 plays a significant role in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the area. The dam has a drainage area of 0.19 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 312 cubic feet per second. Its location in the path of TR-Spring Creek underscores its importance in protecting the surrounding environment and communities from potential water-related disasters. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place, Spring Creek 4-1 is well-maintained and monitored to ensure its continued functionality and safety.

As part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service's portfolio, Spring Creek 4-1 is a testament to the collaborative efforts between local governments and federal agencies to safeguard water resources and mitigate climate-related challenges. The dam's historical significance, combined with its modern regulatory oversight and management practices, underscores its importance in maintaining the resilience of the local ecosystem and supporting sustainable water resource management practices. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spring Creek 4-1 serves as a compelling example of how infrastructure can play a crucial role in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on water resources.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

695

Dam Height

27.5

River Or Stream

TR-SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.1

Hydraulic Height

27.5

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

41.8

Structural Height

32.62

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.