Central Midway Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Central Midway is a significant hydroelectric and irrigation dam located in Cozad, Nebraska.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this earth dam stands at a height of 60 feet and spans 851 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet and a drainage area of 11 square miles. The dam serves the purpose of providing hydroelectric power and irrigation water to the surrounding area, making it a vital resource for the community.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Central Midway is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential, the dam poses minimal risk to the area in the event of an emergency. Despite its age, Central Midway continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.

As a key feature in the local landscape, Central Midway serves as a testament to the engineering achievements of its time and remains a valuable asset for the community. With its dual purpose of hydroelectric power generation and irrigation support, the dam contributes to the sustainable development and resilience of the area, highlighting the importance of water resource management in tackling climate challenges.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

851

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

Supply Canal

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

341

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

500

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

60
       
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.