Coughlin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rock Creek 1-1 Rinne Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Coughlin Dam, located in Pawnee, Nebraska, is a private-owned structure constructed in 2001 for flood risk reduction along Turkey Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 30 feet, with a structural height of 33 feet, the dam serves a primary purpose of flood control, with a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Coughlin Dam poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. The dam's design primarily consists of earth and stone materials, with a soil foundation, making it a reliable structure for managing water resources in the region. The dam's location and design provide essential flood protection for the local community of Steinauer and contribute to the overall water management efforts in Pawnee County.
Managed by a private owner, Coughlin Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the local environment. Its strategic placement along Turkey Creek, coupled with regular inspections and maintenance, ensures that the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively. As a key infrastructure project in Nebraska, Coughlin Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
535 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Big Nemaha River At Humboldt
|
67cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
14cfs |
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
Big Blue R At Marysville
|
164cfs |
Turkey Creek Near De Witt
|
10cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Coughlin Dam