Rock Creek 22-A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Rock Creek 22-A is a crucial water resource management structure located in Pawnee, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet, with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 39 feet. It has a storage capacity of 608 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 1.7 square miles along Rock Creek. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition, with a low hazard potential according to the latest inspection in 2016.

Maintained by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Rock Creek 22-A plays a pivotal role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. The dam's primary purpose and design focus on flood risk reduction, with modifications made in 1992 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. With a normal storage capacity of 139 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 356 cubic feet per second, the structure effectively manages water flow and provides essential protection to the region.

As a key component of the local government's water resource infrastructure, Rock Creek 22-A is a testament to effective collaboration between federal and state agencies to safeguard communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. Its strategic location and design features ensure that it continues to serve its intended purpose while meeting regulatory standards for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam represents a vital piece of the puzzle in managing water resources and mitigating the risks associated with changing weather patterns.

Years Modified

1992 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

990

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

ROCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1.7

Nid Storage

608

Structural Height

39

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.