French Creek F-3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
French Creek F-3 is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Dawson, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the NE DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 209 acre-feet. Serving its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam has a satisfactory condition assessment and a low hazard potential, making it a crucial asset in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Situated in the Kansas City District and overseen by local government authorities, French Creek F-3 plays a vital role in managing the flow of the TR-French Creek. With a drainage area of 1.1 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 412 cubic feet per second, this structure helps to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and prevent potential inundation of the region. Despite being last inspected in 2017, with an inspection frequency of 5 years, the dam continues to meet regulatory standards and ensure the safety of the local community.
French Creek F-3's strategic location in OVERTON, Nebraska, and its earth dam construction with stone core types demonstrate a robust infrastructure designed to withstand hydraulic pressures. With a strong emphasis on state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, this dam exemplifies effective water resource management practices. As a key component in the region's flood risk reduction strategy, French Creek F-3 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
344 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FRENCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
1.1 |
Nid Storage |
209 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
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.
French Creek F-3