Swan Creek 72 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Swan Creek 6 Kreshel Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Swan Creek 72 is a crucial Earth dam situated in Saline, Nebraska, designed by the USDA NRCS as part of flood risk reduction measures along the TR-N FK Swan Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1994, the dam stands at a structural height of 46 feet and a length of 1644 feet, with a storage capacity of 2273 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4.3 square miles. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a vital infrastructure for the local government to manage water resources efficiently.
Managed by the NE DNR, Swan Creek 72 undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and satisfactory condition. With a significant hazard potential, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 3204 cubic feet per second, making it essential for mitigating flood risks in the area. The dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential inundation events, highlighting the importance of effective water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.
As a key flood risk reduction structure in Nebraska, Swan Creek 72 is a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government and federal agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a critical line of defense against potential flood events, demonstrating the proactive approach taken to protect the community and its water resources. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, infrastructure like Swan Creek 72 becomes increasingly vital in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water management systems in the region.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
1644 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N FK SWAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
50 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
4.3 |
Nid Storage |
2273 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Swan Creek 72
Swan Creek WMA