Washington Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Washington Dam 1, located in Washington, Nebraska, is a vital infrastructure owned by the local government for flood risk reduction along Moores Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1989, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 37 feet with a structural height of 57 feet and a length of 550 feet. With a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet and a normal storage of 25 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Washington Dam 1 has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in June 2019. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1029 cubic feet per second. Its location in Omaha, within the Kansas City District, underscores its significance in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood events.

With a primary focus on flood risk reduction, Washington Dam 1 exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As a state-regulated structure with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place, the dam stands as a testament to proactive measures taken to safeguard communities and infrastructure from the impacts of extreme weather events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Washington Dam 1 is crucial in promoting the resilience of our water systems and mitigating the effects of climate change on our environment.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

MOORES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

37

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

290

Structural Height

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

57
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.