Little Sandy Creek 40 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Little Sandy Creek 30 Kerwood Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Little Sandy Creek 40 is a flood risk reduction structure located in Thayer County, Nebraska, specifically in the city of Powell.
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Summary
Completed in 2008, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a structural height of 60 feet, with a length of 2000 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 22.7 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2503 cubic feet per second.
With a storage capacity of 6035 acre-feet, Little Sandy Creek 40 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks along the Little Sandy Creek. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity. As of the last assessment in June 2018, the dam was reported to be in satisfactory condition, meeting safety guidelines and serving as a vital piece of infrastructure for the local community.
As a locally owned structure under the jurisdiction of the state, Little Sandy Creek 40 exemplifies the importance of proactive flood risk management in the face of changing climate patterns. Its presence not only safeguards the area from potential flooding but also highlights the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and state regulators to protect water resources and communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
146 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
22.7 |
Nid Storage |
6035 |
Structural Height |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
60 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Little Sandy Creek 40