Kilpatrick Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cook Southeast Dam Cook Northwest Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kilpatrick Dam, located in Box Butte County, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes along Snake Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1912, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 2500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet. Despite its age, Kilpatrick Dam has undergone modifications in 1991 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities.
The dam's inspection frequency is set at every 5 years, with the last assessment done in October 2017 revealing a poor condition. However, the hazard potential is classified as low. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's location in Alliance, Nebraska, emphasizes its importance in maintaining water resources for agricultural activities in the region.
For enthusiasts of water resources and climate, Kilpatrick Dam serves as a significant infrastructure supporting irrigation in Box Butte County. Its historical significance, design features, and state-regulated status make it a noteworthy structure to study in the context of water management and climate resilience. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's structural integrity, its role in sustaining water supply for the local community underscores the importance of balancing human development with environmental conservation.
Years Modified |
1991 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
2500 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SNAKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
187 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
2000 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Kilpatrick Dam