Papio Creek W-3 is a vital water resource structure located in Washington, Nebraska, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. This earth dam, designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1983, stands at a height of 44.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 269.7 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 0.35 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3343 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the TR-Big Papio Creek.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Papio Creek W-3 is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2020 deemed it to be satisfactory. The surrounding area, with a surface area of 4.7 acres, benefits from the protection provided by this key infrastructure, showcasing the importance of water resource management in mitigating climate-related risks in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Papio Creek W-3 play a crucial role in safeguarding communities against flooding events. With a designated emergency action plan in place and regular inspections to monitor its condition, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government and regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety and resilience of water infrastructure in Nebraska. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Papio Creek W-3 serves as a fascinating case study in effective flood risk reduction and water management strategies.