Cottonwood Creek 21-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 6, 2026
Cottonwood Creek 21-A is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Saunders, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1983.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a hydraulic height of 36 feet, with a structural height of 42 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1043 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the area. However, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential, highlighting the need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure its effectiveness in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Cottonwood Creek 21-A plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flood events. With a drainage area of 2.2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 7976 cubic feet per second, this structure is vital for mitigating flood risks in the area. Despite its importance, the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential underscore the urgency of implementing risk management measures and conducting regular inspections to ensure its continued functionality in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource dynamics.
As climate change impacts become more pronounced, structures like Cottonwood Creek 21-A will be vital for managing water resources and reducing flood risks in vulnerable areas. With its location in the Kansas City District and oversight by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam serves as a critical asset for the local community. However, the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential emphasize the need for proactive maintenance and risk management strategies to ensure its long-term resilience and effectiveness in protecting against floods and safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33 |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
1043 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River At North Bend
|
5240cfs |
Wahoo Creek At Ithaca
|
53cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
Rock Creek Near Ceresco
|
14cfs |
Maple Creek Near Nickerson
|
64cfs |
Elkhorn River At Waterloo
|
1680cfs |
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.
Cottonwood Creek 21-A
Czechland Lake Recreation