Wolf-Wildcat 81 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Wolf-Wildcat 81 is a local government-owned dam located in Gage County, Nebraska, specifically in the city of Barneston.


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Summary

Constructed in 1990 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a structural height of 43 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 1,736 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 356 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Wolf-Wildcat 81 is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2016, Wolf-Wildcat 81 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam is situated on the Wildcat Creek and has a drainage area of 4.6 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2,551 cubic feet per second.

Overall, Wolf-Wildcat 81 is a vital water resource infrastructure designed for flood risk reduction in Gage County, Nebraska. With its strategic location and effective design, this dam serves as a key component of the local flood control system, safeguarding the community from potential water-related disasters. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of this structure in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

1700

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

TR-WILDCAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

52

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

4.6

Nid Storage

1736

Structural Height

43

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.