Prairie Creek Upland Dam 1 (Pcul 1) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Prairie Creek Upland Dam 1 (Pcul 1) is a vital structure located in Grand Island, Nebraska, designed by JEO Consulting Group, Inc.
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Summary
This earth dam, completed in 2015, stands at a height of 38.5 feet and serves as a critical component for flood risk reduction along Prairie Creek. With a storage capacity of 5776.3 acre-feet and a drainage area of 13.02 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding.
Managed by the local government, Prairie Creek Upland Dam 1 is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, although its condition assessment as of September 2020 was deemed satisfactory. In the event of an emergency, it is important to note that an emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in April 2014, with updates possibly needed to ensure it meets current guidelines and includes accurate inundation maps and emergency contacts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Prairie Creek Upland Dam 1 represents a significant infrastructure project aimed at mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the community of Grand Island. With its strategic location, structural design, and operational effectiveness, the dam stands as a testament to proactive measures taken to protect against natural disasters and preserve the integrity of the surrounding environment. As efforts continue to maintain and improve this essential flood protection system, its impact on water resource management and climate resilience in the region remains a topic of interest and importance.
Year Completed |
2015 |
Dam Length |
1591 |
Dam Height |
38.5 |
River Or Stream |
Prairie Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.41 |
Hydraulic Height |
37.49 |
Drainage Area |
13.02 |
Nid Storage |
5776.3 |
Structural Height |
50.54 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
51 |
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
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Cheyenne State Rec Area
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Windmill State Rec Area
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Prairie Creek Upland Dam 1 (Pcul 1)