West Phillips Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

West Phillips, also known as Ed 67.1, is a hydroelectric dam located in Lexington, Nebraska, within Gosper County.


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Summary

Constructed in 1941, this public utility structure serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and irrigation. With a dam height of 43 feet and a length of 354 feet, West Phillips boasts a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 337 acre-feet and a surface area of 32 acres.

Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, West Phillips has a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating of 2. While the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, it is subject to regular inspections every three years. With its strategic location on the Supply Platte River and commitment to sustainable water resource management, West Phillips plays a crucial role in supporting local communities and enhancing the region's resilience to climate variability.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Nebraska, West Phillips represents a harmonious blend of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship. With its earth dam type, stone core, and soil foundation, the dam exemplifies a balance between functionality and natural resource conservation. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate West Phillips as a vital contributor to the state's energy production and agricultural irrigation needs, highlighting the intersection of human ingenuity and ecological sustainability in water management practices.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

354

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

Supply Platte

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Nid Storage

450

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.