Papio Creek 15-A Reservoir Report
Nearby: Papio Creek D-18 Papio Creek D-17
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Papio Creek 15-A is a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure located in Omaha, Nebraska.
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Summary
Completed in 2017, this earth dam stands at a height of 56.2 feet and has a hydraulic height of 55.6 feet, providing a crucial barrier against potential flooding events. Managed by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this dam serves to protect the surrounding area along N BR West Papio Creek, with a drainage area of 11.06 square miles.
With a maximum storage capacity of 9195.8 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 2300 acre-feet, Papio Creek 15-A plays a significant role in managing water resources in Douglas County. The dam covers a surface area of 220 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 22,620 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective water flow control during peak periods. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in April 2020 deemed it satisfactory, highlighting its reliability in safeguarding the community from potential flooding risks.
Designed by HDR Engineering, Inc., Papio Creek 15-A stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and engineering firms in enhancing water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its strategic location and structural integrity, this dam serves as a critical asset in mitigating flood-related threats and ensuring the safety and security of residents in Omaha and its surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
2017 |
Dam Length |
1920 |
Dam Height |
56.2 |
River Or Stream |
N BR WEST PAPIO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
220 |
Hydraulic Height |
55.6 |
Drainage Area |
11.06 |
Nid Storage |
9195.8 |
Structural Height |
64.3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
64 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Papillion Cr
|
38cfs |
Elkhorn River At Waterloo
|
1120cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
Missouri River At Omaha
|
17800cfs |
Platte R Nr Ashland
|
6290cfs |
Wahoo Cr At Ashland
|
78cfs |
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.
Papio Creek 15-A
Main boat ramp