South Fork 3-4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: South Fork 3-D South Fork 3-C
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
South Fork 3-4 is a dam located in Pawnee, Nebraska, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Constructed in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. It is situated along the TR-NEGRO BRANCH CREEK, within the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state.
With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2017, South Fork 3-4 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water management practices. Regular inspections ensure its operational readiness, while the dam's location in a rural area underscores its importance for local government and community resilience.
Overall, South Fork 3-4 serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water resource management in Pawnee, Nebraska. Its strategic placement along TR-NEGRO BRANCH CREEK, coupled with its state-regulated status and low hazard potential, highlights the importance of proactive dam maintenance and monitoring. As climate change impacts intensify, structures like South Fork 3-4 will play an increasingly critical role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the adverse effects of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
567 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NEGRO BRANCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
South Fork 3-4