Cottle Dam, located in Cass, Nebraska, along the TR-Cedar Creek, was completed in 1980 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. This private earth dam stands at a height of 28.2 feet, providing a storage capacity of 38.5 acre-feet and serving as a crucial structure in mitigating potential flooding in the area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of May 2015 was marked as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and inspection to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood management.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Cottle Dam's state-regulated status underscores the importance of state oversight in maintaining the safety and functionality of the dam. With a drainage area of 0.12 square miles and a surface area of 3 acres, the dam plays a key role in protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related hazards. While its condition may be a concern, the dam's strategic location and design contribute significantly to its flood risk reduction capabilities, making it a critical asset in the region's water resource management infrastructure.

As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the proper maintenance and upkeep of structures like Cottle Dam become even more vital. With its historical significance as a flood risk reduction measure and its potential to safeguard the community from water-related disasters, efforts to address the dam's poor condition and ensure its long-term functionality are essential for the resilience of the region's water resources and climate adaptation strategies.