Prairie Creek Upland Dam 2 (Pcul 2) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Prairie Creek Upland Dam 2 (PCUL 2) in Grand Island, Nebraska, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure completed in 2015.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 34.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 33.46 feet, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a storage capacity of 4,465.3 acre-feet and a drainage area of 9.33 square miles, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.
Located on the TR-Prairie Creek, the PCUL 2 dam has a satisfactory condition assessment, with a high hazard potential due to its purpose of flood risk reduction. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is 13,900 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective flood control measures during periods of high water flow. The structure also features a spillway for excess water release, although specific details on its design are not provided in the data. With regular inspections and enforcement by state regulatory agencies, PCUL 2 remains a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in Buffalo County, Nebraska.
Overall, Prairie Creek Upland Dam 2 exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local government and state agencies to address flood risks and protect communities in the region. With its completion in 2015 and ongoing inspections to maintain its structural integrity, this earth dam stands as a testament to proactive measures taken to safeguard water resources and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. As an essential part of the flood risk reduction strategy for Grand Island and the surrounding area, PCUL 2 plays a vital role in ensuring the resilience of the region's water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
2015 |
Dam Length |
1987 |
Dam Height |
34.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PRAIRIE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.07 |
Hydraulic Height |
33.46 |
Drainage Area |
9.33 |
Nid Storage |
4465.3 |
Structural Height |
45.82 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Loup R At St. Michael
|
149cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1870cfs |
Platte River Near Grand Island
|
1450cfs |
Middle Loup R. At St. Paul
|
1180cfs |
North Loup River Nr St Paul Nebr
|
2580cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
War Axe State Rec Area
|
||
Cheyenne State Rec Area
|
||
Ravenna Lake State Rec Area
|
Prairie Creek Upland Dam 2 (Pcul 2)