Buffalo-French Creek F-5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jessen Dam 1416 Buffalo Creek F-1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Buffalo-French Creek F-5 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Dawson, Nebraska.
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Summary
Built in 1984, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet, with a total structural height of 32 feet. The dam spans 668 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 816 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 127 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition.
Situated on TR-French Creek, Buffalo-French Creek F-5 plays a crucial role in mitigating the risks of flooding in the region. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a protective barrier for the surrounding areas. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1500 cubic feet per second, the dam covers a drainage area of 3 square miles and encompasses a surface area of 29 acres. While the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion, it remains a key component of the local flood control infrastructure.
Managed by the local government, Buffalo-French Creek F-5 is an essential asset in safeguarding the community of Overton from potential flood events. With its satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspection schedule, the dam ensures the safety and resilience of the area against the threat of flooding. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on this dam provides valuable insights into the infrastructure that protects and sustains the delicate balance of water management in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
668 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FRENCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
816 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
3cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
1390cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
1280cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
928cfs |
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-French Creek F-5