Dam 20-9-4w Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dam 20-9-4w, located in York, Nebraska, is a privately owned recreational dam that was completed in 1994.


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Summary

With a height of 27 feet and a length of 228 feet, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding area. Situated on the TR-W FK Big Blue River, this dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2016.

The dam has a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 557 cubic feet per second, making it an important feature for managing water resources in the region. It is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its modest size, Dam 20-9-4w plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the overall water management efforts in the area.

Owned by a private entity, Dam 20-9-4w serves as a valuable asset for the community of McCool Junction and the surrounding area. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam blends seamlessly into the natural landscape, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of properly maintaining and regulating dams like 20-9-4w becomes increasingly apparent, highlighting the intersection of water management, recreation, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

228

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-W FK BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

42

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.