Buffalo Creek B-1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Buffalo Creek B-1 is a vital earth dam located in Dawson, Nebraska, serving as a crucial flood risk reduction measure along the E Buffalo Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1982, this dam stands at a height of 62 feet and spans a length of 2650 feet, with a storage capacity of 10,220 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a satisfactory condition assessment and a significant hazard potential. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its proper functioning.
Situated in Congressional District 03, Nebraska, Buffalo Creek B-1 plays a pivotal role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a drainage area of 36.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 10,049 cubic feet per second, this dam is a crucial component of the local water resource infrastructure. Its location in Overton underscores its significance in safeguarding the community and its residents from the devastating impacts of flooding, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to uphold its integrity and functionality.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of structures like Buffalo Creek B-1 in managing flood risks and protecting communities. With its earth dam construction and stone core, this dam stands as a testament to the efforts taken to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard lives and property. By understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory framework surrounding Buffalo Creek B-1, enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate balance between water resource management and climate resilience in ensuring the safety and well-being of local populations.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
2650 |
Dam Height |
62 |
River Or Stream |
E BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
221 |
Hydraulic Height |
51 |
Drainage Area |
36.6 |
Nid Storage |
10220 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
62 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1870cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1370cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1570cfs |
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.
Buffalo Creek B-1