Big Sandy Creek 35-5-2 (Bruning Dam) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sieber Dam Exidon Lagoon 1b Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Sandy Creek 35-5-2, also known as Bruning Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Fillmore, Nebraska.
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Summary
Completed in 1984, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 45 feet, with a hydraulic height of 45 feet and a structural height of 50 feet. The dam spans a length of 1780 feet and has a storage capacity of 10,538 acre-feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along TR-DRY SANDY CREEK.
With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2018, Bruning Dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections every 3 years. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 1,954 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capability of 9,075 cubic feet per second, helping to manage water flow and mitigate flood risks in the area. Situated within a drainage area of 24.9 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.
As an essential infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region, Bruning Dam serves as a key component of the water resource management system in Fillmore County, Nebraska. With its strategic location on Big Sandy Creek and its vital role in storing water during peak flow periods, this dam exemplifies the importance of effective dam operations and maintenance to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the safety and resilience of the local community in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
1780 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DRY SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
259 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
24.9 |
Nid Storage |
10538 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Blue River Near Fairbury
|
230cfs |
Little Blue River Near Deweese
|
40cfs |
West Fork Big Blue River Nr Dorchester
|
39cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
Big Blue River Near Crete
|
95cfs |
Republican R Nr Hardy
|
107cfs |
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.
Big Sandy Creek 35-5-2 (Bruning Dam)