Hiles Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hiles Canyon, located in Dawson County, Nebraska, is a significant hydroelectric structure with a primary purpose of generating electricity and irrigating surrounding areas.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this earth dam stands at 25 feet in height and stretches 502 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. The dam is owned and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and is subject to state oversight by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.

The dam's low hazard potential is attributed to its sturdy stone core and soil foundation, providing stability for the structure. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2370 cubic feet per second, Hiles Canyon plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. Despite its age, the dam has not been modified in recent years and its condition assessment is currently not available.

Public utility Hiles Canyon serves as a vital infrastructure for the community of Cozad, Nebraska, supporting both hydroelectric power generation and irrigation activities. As a state-regulated and federally-owned facility, the dam undergoes regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its safe and efficient operation. With its strategic location on the Supply Canal and its important role in water storage and control, Hiles Canyon remains a key asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

502

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Supply Canal

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

7.5

Nid Storage

200

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.