Shaw Pond Dam, located in Nelson, Nebraska, plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along TR-ELK CREEK. Built in 1999 by USDA NRCS, this private dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 183 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Shaw Pond Dam is state-regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its compliance with safety and inspection requirements.

The dam, primarily made of earth and stone, spans 725 feet in length and covers a surface area of 8 acres. It serves a drainage area of 1.7 square miles and can handle a maximum discharge of 325 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of its last inspection in April 2018. While it is not USACE-owned, Shaw Pond Dam's critical role in mitigating flood risks highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding area.

With its strategic location and design, Shaw Pond Dam stands as a testament to successful collaboration between private owners and regulatory agencies in managing water resources and climate-related risks. As enthusiasts in this field, it is imperative to recognize the vital role that structures like Shaw Pond Dam play in protecting communities and ecosystems from the potentially devastating impacts of flooding. By staying informed and engaged with the ongoing maintenance and regulation of such dams, we can contribute to the resilience and sustainability of our water resources in the face of a changing climate.