Papio Creek 21 - Walnut Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Papio Creek 21, also known as Walnut Creek, is a key water resource management structure located in Papillion, Nebraska.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. Completed in 1996 by Olsson Associates, this structure has a storage capacity of 3,347 acre-feet and covers a drainage area of 3.3 square miles.

With a satisfactory condition assessment and a high hazard potential, Papio Creek 21 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area. The dam's impressive dimensions include a length of 1,330 feet and a hydraulic height of 54 feet. It is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 8,092 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities. Regular inspections are carried out to maintain its operational efficiency, with the last assessment conducted in April 2020.

Ensuring the safety and functionality of Papio Creek 21 - Walnut Creek is a top priority for local authorities and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources. As a vital component of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in Sarpy County, this earth dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Its strategic location and design make it a key player in safeguarding the community against potential flood events, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical infrastructure for the well-being of residents and the environment.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

1330

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

97

Hydraulic Height

54

Drainage Area

3.3

Nid Storage

3347

Structural Height

62

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

62
       
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.