Knapple Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Knapple, also known as Ed 71.3, is a hydroelectric and irrigation dam located in Gosper, Nebraska.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this Earth-type dam stands at 33 feet tall and spans 328 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. Operated by a public utility, Knapple is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Despite its low hazard potential, Knapple is classified as having a high risk level (2). While its condition assessment is not currently available, the dam undergoes inspections every 3 years to ensure its safety and integrity. With a normal storage capacity of 325 acre-feet and a surface area of 38 acres, Knapple plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation purposes in the region.

With the potential to impact water resource management and climate conditions in the area, Knapple serves as a vital infrastructure for both agricultural and hydroelectric needs. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate monitoring, understanding the operational and regulatory aspects of dams like Knapple can provide valuable insights into sustainable water usage and disaster risk management strategies.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

328

Dam Height

33

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38

Nid Storage

400

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.