Swan Creek 5 is a vital earth dam located in Swanton, Nebraska, under the ownership of the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. Built in 1988 by the USDA NRCS, this dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the TR-N FK SWAN CREEK river or stream. With a height of 43 feet and a hydraulic height of 42 feet, Swan Creek 5 has a storage capacity of 2449 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 7.2 square miles.

The dam, constructed with a stone core and soil foundation, spans 1350 feet in length and covers a surface area of 95 acres. Its maximum discharge capacity reaches 3260 cubic feet per second, making it a significant structure in the region. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2019, Swan Creek 5 is classified as having significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk mitigation. The dam is located in Saline County, Nebraska, within the congressional district represented by Adrian Smith (R).

Overall, Swan Creek 5 stands as a key component in the flood risk reduction efforts in the area, serving as a critical infrastructure to protect against potential inundation. With its strategic location and impressive specifications, this earth dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability. Its operation and regulation by local authorities, in conjunction with state agencies, underscore the collaborative efforts in managing water resources and adapting to changing climate conditions in Nebraska.