Ross Dam, located in Gothenburg, Nebraska, is a private earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1962 for flood risk reduction and other purposes. With a height of 15.7 feet and a length of 380 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet and serves as a critical structure on the TR-Platte River. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state inspection, permitting, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Although the dam's condition is deemed poor, it continues to provide essential flood protection and water storage capabilities for the surrounding area. With a drainage area of 0.91 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 362 cubic feet per second, Ross Dam remains a key asset for water management and climate resilience efforts in Lincoln County, Nebraska.

Despite its age and condition, Ross Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water availability in arid regions like Nebraska. With ongoing state regulation and inspection, the dam continues to fulfill its purpose of protecting communities and enhancing water security in the face of changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and maintenance of structures like Ross Dam are essential for building a more resilient and sustainable future.