Dowling Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carol Joy Holling Dam Philpot
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Dowling Dam, located in Cass County, Nebraska, serves as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the TR-Salt Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1980 by local government authorities, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 82.7 acre-feet, providing essential protection to the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 indicated poor maintenance, highlighting the need for regular inspections and potential repairs to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks.
Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Dowling Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection to uphold its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, with a normal storage capacity of 7.4 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.39 square miles. Although the dam's risk assessment and emergency preparedness status are currently unspecified, its role in safeguarding the local community underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to address any potential vulnerabilities and ensure long-term resilience against climate-related challenges.
As a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure, Dowling Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding against the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability. With a designated inspection frequency of every five years, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to uphold the dam's functionality and protect the surrounding area from potential flood hazards. By maintaining a proactive approach to dam safety and resilience, Dowling Dam can continue to fulfill its critical role in protecting the community and adapting to the evolving climate conditions in the future.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
585 |
Dam Height |
30.1 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SALT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.1 |
Drainage Area |
1.39 |
Nid Storage |
82.7 |
Structural Height |
30.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wahoo Cr At Ashland
|
78cfs |
Platte R Nr Ashland
|
6290cfs |
Salt Creek At Greenwood
|
125cfs |
Platte R At Louisville Ne
|
8100cfs |
Rock Creek Near Ceresco
|
14cfs |
Wahoo Creek At Ithaca
|
53cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ashland RV Campground
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Linoma
|
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Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
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Louisville Lakes State Rec Area
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Dowling Dam
Main boat ramp