Little Willow Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hughes Goshen No. 1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Little Willow is a privately owned irrigation dam located on Horse Creek off-stream in Lyman, Nebraska.
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Summary
Built in 1906, this Earth dam stands at 10 feet high and has a normal storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, serving the agricultural needs of the area.
Despite its historical significance, Little Willow is currently in poor condition according to a 2017 assessment. With a low hazard potential but a high risk assessment rating, there are concerns about its safety and the need for maintenance. The dam has uncontrolled and valve outlet gates, and has a history of state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and sustainability of dams like Little Willow will find this structure's data intriguing. With its location in Goshen, Wyoming, and proximity to the Omaha District, the dam presents both historical value and challenges in terms of its current condition and risk assessment.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
910 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
HORSE CREEK OFF STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
54 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
216 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled, Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Little Willow