Blackwood Creek P-3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ruff Dam 2 Ruff Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Blackwood Creek P-3, located in Red Willow, Nebraska, is a crucial water resource infrastructure designed by USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the TR-Republican River.
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Summary
Completed in 1984, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 178 acre-feet, serving its primary purpose of flood risk reduction. Managed by the local government and regulated by the NE DNR, this dam has a low hazard potential and has been assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in April 2020.
With a drainage area of 1 square mile, Blackwood Creek P-3 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam's structural height of 35 feet and hydraulic height of 29 feet ensure efficient water management, with a maximum discharge capacity of 430 cubic feet per second. Despite being a low hazard structure, it is subject to regular inspections every 5 years to maintain its operational integrity and ensure public safety. The dam's satisfactory condition and adherence to regulatory guidelines highlight its importance in safeguarding the community against water-related risks.
Overall, Blackwood Creek P-3 stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Nebraska, providing flood protection and peace of mind to residents in the region. Supported by federal agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam continues to serve its purpose decades after its construction, showcasing the commitment to sustainable infrastructure development and climate resilience. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Blackwood Creek P-3 play a crucial role in adapting to changing conditions and mitigating the risks associated with extreme weather events, demonstrating the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
862 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-REPUBLICAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
178 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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-3