Winnebago Creek 41-3a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Winnebago Creek 41-3a is a vital water resource in Richardson County, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at 46 feet in height and spans 1718 feet, providing essential flood risk reduction and other purposes for the local community. With a storage capacity of 642 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.9 square miles, Winnebago Creek 41-3a plays a crucial role in managing water flow and safeguarding the surrounding area.
Situated in Rulo, Nebraska, this dam is inspected every five years, with the latest assessment in March 2017 rating its condition as satisfactory and hazard potential as low. The dam's primary purpose, alongside flood risk reduction, serves as a testament to its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Despite its modest surface area of 21 acres, Winnebago Creek 41-3a has proven to be a reliable structure, showcasing the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between local government and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 1600 cubic feet per second, Winnebago Creek 41-3a stands as a critical infrastructure in the region's water management system. Its strategic location, design, and operational efficiency highlight the significance of proactive measures in ensuring water security and climate resilience for the community. As climate change intensifies, structures like Winnebago Creek 41-3a serve as essential tools in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
1718 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WINNEBAGO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
2.9 |
Nid Storage |
642 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Rulo
|
26600cfs |
Big Nemaha River At Falls City
|
310cfs |
Tarkio River At Fairfax Mo
|
55cfs |
Nodaway River Near Graham
|
134cfs |
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
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.
Winnebago Creek 41-3a