Blackwood Creek P-5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Blackwood Creek P-3 Spencer Dam 1496
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Blackwood Creek P-5 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Red Willow, Nebraska, along the TR-Republican River.
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Summary
Built in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 384 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Blackwood Creek P-5 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NE DNR, Blackwood Creek P-5 undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The dam's primary purpose is to safeguard the community from potential water-related disasters, with a drainage area of 2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 673 cubic feet per second. Situated within the Omaha District, Blackwood Creek P-5 serves as a key infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate the intersection of human intervention and natural forces in managing water resources.
Overall, Blackwood Creek P-5 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and conservation services in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources. Its strategic location, design, and operational efficiency make it a noteworthy structure for those interested in the intricate balance between human intervention and environmental resilience in the face of changing climate patterns. As a symbol of proactive flood risk management, Blackwood Creek P-5 exemplifies the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in safeguarding communities against water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
577 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-REPUBLICAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
384 |
Structural Height |
44 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
44 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Karrer Park
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Red Willow Reservoir State Rec Area
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Kiwanis Point Campground
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Willow View Campground
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Buffalo Roam Campground
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Blackwood Creek P-5