Sand Creek 15 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sand Creek 13 Sand Creek 24
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Sand Creek 15, located in Wahoo, Nebraska, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Sand Creek river.
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Summary
This earth dam, completed in 2013, stands at a height of 38.3 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 2338.1 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 3.51 square miles and a normal storage of 265.4 acre-feet, this dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flood risks in the region.
Owned and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Sand Creek 15 is inspected every five years to ensure its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential. The dam's structural height of 49.3 feet and hydraulic height of 29.36 feet contribute to its effective flood control capabilities. Despite its importance in flood risk reduction, the dam has a risk management plan in place to address any potential issues and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Sand Creek 15 serves as a key infrastructure for flood protection in Saunders County, Nebraska, under the oversight of the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With its strategic location and design, this dam not only safeguards the area from flooding but also highlights the essential role of water resource management in adapting to climate change impacts. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sand Creek 15 exemplifies the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of evolving weather patterns and water-related challenges.
Year Completed |
2013 |
Dam Length |
1240 |
Dam Height |
38.3 |
River Or Stream |
Sand Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
46.58 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.36 |
Drainage Area |
3.51 |
Nid Storage |
2338.1 |
Structural Height |
49.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
49 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River At North Bend
|
4920cfs |
Maple Creek Near Nickerson
|
60cfs |
Wahoo Creek At Ithaca
|
53cfs |
Platte River Nr Leshara
|
5270cfs |
Shell Creek Near Columbus
|
87cfs |
Clear Cr 1.75mi W Of Polk Co Line
|
17cfs |
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.
Sand Creek 15