Birkel Dam, located in Butler, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes. Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 116 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly for agricultural irrigation along TR-DEER CREEK.

Despite its low hazard potential, Birkel Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of April 2019. The dam is inspected every five years, with the last inspection conducted in April 2019. The regulatory oversight and enforcement for the dam fall under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NE DNR), ensuring that the structure meets state permitting and inspection requirements. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, its importance in water resource management for the region remains significant.

The Birkel Dam's location within Congressional District 01 of Nebraska underscores its importance in sustaining agricultural activities in the area. With a drainage area of 0.2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water storage and distribution. Despite its current poor condition, continued monitoring and maintenance efforts are essential to ensure the dam's long-term functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource management challenges.