Hitchcock Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hitchcock Dam 2 Hitchcock Dam 3
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Located in Keya Paha, Nebraska, the Hitchcock Dam is a vital water resource structure designed by the USDA NRCS for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet, with a structural height of 31 feet and a length of 340 feet. It has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres, serving the local community by providing water for agricultural needs.
Despite its importance in supporting irrigation activities, the Hitchcock Dam has been flagged for its poor condition assessment, indicating a need for maintenance and repairs. With a low hazard potential, the dam poses minimal risk but requires attention to ensure its long-term stability. The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources plays a key role in regulating, inspecting, and enforcing the safety protocols for this structure, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in managing water resources effectively.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the significance of structures like Hitchcock Dam is crucial in safeguarding our environment and ensuring sustainable water management practices. By staying informed about the condition and regulatory oversight of such dams, individuals can contribute to the preservation of these essential resources and promote resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
BR SPOTTED TAIL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
188cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
934cfs |
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.
Hitchcock Dam