Swan Creek 5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Swan Creek 5 is a vital earth dam located in Swanton, Nebraska, under the ownership of the local government and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1988 by the USDA NRCS, this dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the TR-N FK SWAN CREEK river or stream. With a height of 43 feet and a hydraulic height of 42 feet, Swan Creek 5 has a storage capacity of 2449 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 7.2 square miles.
The dam, constructed with a stone core and soil foundation, spans 1350 feet in length and covers a surface area of 95 acres. Its maximum discharge capacity reaches 3260 cubic feet per second, making it a significant structure in the region. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2019, Swan Creek 5 is classified as having significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk mitigation. The dam is located in Saline County, Nebraska, within the congressional district represented by Adrian Smith (R).
Overall, Swan Creek 5 stands as a key component in the flood risk reduction efforts in the area, serving as a critical infrastructure to protect against potential inundation. With its strategic location and impressive specifications, this earth dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability. Its operation and regulation by local authorities, in conjunction with state agencies, underscore the collaborative efforts in managing water resources and adapting to changing climate conditions in Nebraska.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
1350 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N FK SWAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
95 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
7.2 |
Nid Storage |
2449 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Swan Creek 5
Willard L. Meyer Rec. Area