Big Elk Lake (WP-7)

Big Elk Lake (originally WP-7 Regional Detention Basin) was identified in the Plan to provide regional detention of stormwater in the Papillion Creek Watershed. This sub-watershed is one of the most rapidly developing watersheds in the metropolitan area and these sites were selected at the time the Plan was developed to maximize flood control, given what open ground remains in the area.  This site was at the top of the list of the 2014 re-prioritization study that emphasized the need to purchase the land and construct this structure prior to development reaching the area. Constructed in 2021, the site is located on a tributary to West Papillion Creek and contributes to the flood reduction benefits experienced in the downstream communities of Papillion and Bellevue.  

The dam is unique in that it is designed to accommodate Cornhusker Road on the backside of the embankment.  The Big Elk recreation area has a full loop paved trail, a breakwater and fish bumpouts for angler access, a day use facility with a picnic shelter and restroom facility, a kayak launch and over 30 acres of native grassland. There is a large water quality basin located within the recreation area the traps sediment and nutrients before reaching the main body of the lake. This area also serves as aquatic habitat and is full of wildlife.