Dawson County Road Dam 5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Dawson County Road Dam 5, located in Nebraska, is a local government-owned structure constructed in 1971 to primarily serve flood risk reduction purposes along the TR-Wood River.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet with a length of 280 feet, offering a maximum storage capacity of 15.7 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 2 acres. While the dam's hazard potential is deemed low and its condition assessed as satisfactory, it undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Dawson County Road Dam 5 is a vital component in the region's water resource infrastructure, supporting the local community in mitigating flood risks and regulating water flow along the Wood River. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, showcasing a commitment to maintaining its functionality and safety standards. With its location in a rural setting near Sumner, Nebraska, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting nearby communities and natural habitats from potential water-related challenges.
As a part of the Kansas City District and within the jurisdiction of Congressional District 03, Nebraska, Dawson County Road Dam 5 contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area. Its satisfactory condition, regular inspections, and low hazard potential highlight its importance in safeguarding the local environment and residents against potential flooding events. By adhering to state regulations and undergoing routine assessments, the dam remains a key asset in preserving water resources and ensuring climate resilience in Dawson County, Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
15.7 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
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.
Dawson County Road Dam 5