Cottonwood Creek 6-B Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Cottonwood Creek 6-B, located in Saunders, Nebraska, is a vital flood risk reduction structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1979.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a structural height of 55.3 feet and has a dam length of 1290 feet, providing essential flood protection for the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 1537 acre-feet and a normal storage of 124 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting against potential hazards.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Cottonwood Creek 6-B is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2018, this dam continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The surrounding community can rest assured that this structure is well-maintained and equipped to handle any potential emergencies that may arise.

Supported by state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Cottonwood Creek 6-B is a key component of the local flood control infrastructure in Nebraska. Its strategic location and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service make it a critical asset in safeguarding the region against the impacts of extreme weather events and fluctuating water levels. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam represents a successful collaboration between local government agencies and federal partners to protect communities and ecosystems from the threats of flooding.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

1290

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

3.3

Nid Storage

1537

Structural Height

55.3

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

55
       
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.