Cow Creek 1 is a privately owned dam located in Cherry County, Nebraska, along the Cow Creek river. Built in 1998 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a storage capacity of 164 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, it also serves other purposes and has a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in July 2020.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Cow Creek 1 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and is monitored regularly to prevent any risks to the surrounding area. With a drainage area of 10.5 square miles and a maximum discharge of 274 cubic feet per second, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Located in a rural area near Brewster, Cow Creek 1 is a vital infrastructure for water resource management in Cherry County. As a key component of flood risk reduction efforts, this dam provides essential storage capacity and protection to the local community. With its satisfactory condition, regular inspections, and state regulatory oversight, Cow Creek 1 stands as a reliable and effective structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and study.