Bear - Pierce - Cedar 9-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Bear - Pierce - Cedar 9-A is a vital earth dam located in Gage County, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1978 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Cedar Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a storage capacity of 2131 acre-feet and a normal storage of 227 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 63 acres and serves a drainage area of 7 square miles.
Managed by the local government, Bear - Pierce - Cedar 9-A is regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its compliance with state guidelines for operation and maintenance. With a hazard potential rated as low and a fair condition assessment as of October 2020, this dam continues to effectively fulfill its flood risk reduction purpose for the community. The dam, with its stone core and soil foundation, stands as a testament to successful collaboration between federal and local agencies in safeguarding the region from potential water-related disasters.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Bear - Pierce - Cedar 9-A remains a critical infrastructure in the region, with a design that reflects modern engineering standards and a history of serving its intended purpose effectively. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of such structures in mitigating flood risks and ensuring community safety is essential for appreciating the intricate balance between human development and natural forces. The ongoing maintenance and inspections of this dam underscore the importance of proactive management in safeguarding water resources and adapting to the changing climate dynamics in the region.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
1526 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
63 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
2131 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bear - Pierce - Cedar 9-A