Wilson Dam 1515 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Wilson Dam 1515 in Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS, stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Completed in 1966, this earth dam with a core of stone and soil foundation serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, in the Stuart Creek watershed. The dam boasts a height of 25.8 feet and a storage capacity of 20.5 acre-feet, offering vital protection to the surrounding area.

Located in Washington County, Nebraska, Wilson Dam 1515 is under state regulation by the NE DNR, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 marked it as poor, signaling the need for maintenance and potential improvements. With its strategic placement and crucial role in water management, Wilson Dam 1515 serves as a vital infrastructure piece in the region, supported by the USDA NRCS's design expertise and commitment to sustainable resource utilization.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wilson Dam 1515 is a fascinating example of infrastructure supporting both environmental conservation and community safety. As a private-owned structure, it plays a significant role in flood risk reduction and water storage in the region, with a capacity of 20.5 acre-feet and a strategic location in the Stuart Creek watershed. While facing some maintenance challenges, the dam's operational importance is underscored by its state-regulated status and regular inspections, highlighting its key role in the overall water management system in Washington County, Nebraska.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

165

Dam Height

25.8

River Or Stream

STUART CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.7

Hydraulic Height

25.8

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

20.5

Structural Height

25.8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.