Bellwood 2-C Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Bellwood 2-C, located in Butler, Nebraska, is a vital piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along Elm Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at 51 feet high and spans 935 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 2297 acre-feet. With a normal storage volume of 391 acre-feet and a drainage area of 7 square miles, Bellwood 2-C plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction for the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the NE DNR, Bellwood 2-C has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam underwent its last inspection in June 2019 and is subject to regular monitoring and enforcement to ensure its continued effectiveness. With its location in the Kansas City District and primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Bellwood 2-C serves as a critical component of water resource management in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the importance of structures like Bellwood 2-C in safeguarding communities against the impacts of flooding. With its strategic design, robust construction, and ongoing maintenance, this dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices in Nebraska. As we continue to face challenges posed by climate change and increasing water variability, Bellwood 2-C remains a key asset in protecting lives, property, and ecosystems along Elm Creek.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

935

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

7

Nid Storage

2297

Structural Height

51

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.