Papio Creek S-31 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Papio Creek S-31, located in Bellevue, Nebraska, is a crucial earth dam structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1974 for flood risk reduction along the TR-South Papio Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a structural height of 54 feet, with a storage capacity of 188 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.4 square miles. Despite its age, the dam's condition is rated as satisfactory, with a high hazard potential due to its location in a densely populated area.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Papio Creek S-31 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a critical infrastructure in mitigating potential disasters caused by heavy rainfall and water overflow. It is considered a local government-owned structure under the jurisdiction of Sarpy County, Nebraska, and is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety for nearby residents and properties.

In the event of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is currently unspecified, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and preparedness measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 5,763 cubic feet per second, Papio Creek S-31 plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region, reflecting the collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local agencies to safeguard communities from potential flood risks.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH PAPIO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

188

Structural Height

54

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

54
       
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.