Summary
The dam, completed in 1941, stands at a height of 38 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 1,600 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 9.7 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 4,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in water management and control in the region.
Owned by a public utility and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, West Midway Canyon is situated in Dawson County and spans a surface area of 116 acres. While its hazard potential is classified as low, the risk assessment for the dam is rated as high (2). Despite its age, the dam has undergone regular inspections and maintenance, with a three-year inspection frequency to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The location's historical significance, combined with its role in water supply and climate control, makes West Midway Canyon a significant component of Nebraska's water infrastructure.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, West Midway Canyon serves as a testament to sustainable water resource management and effective hydroelectric power generation. With its earth dam structure and stone core type, the dam exemplifies the intersection of technology, engineering, and environmental stewardship in harnessing water resources for the benefit of communities in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the importance of infrastructure like West Midway Canyon in ensuring water security and resilience cannot be overstated.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
878 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
Supply Canal |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
116 |
Drainage Area |
9.7 |
Nid Storage |
1600 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring Creek Nr Overton
|
7cfs |
Platte River Near Overton
|
553cfs |
Buffalo Creek Nr Overton Nebr
|
4cfs |
Republican River At Cambridge
|
60cfs |
Platte R Mid Ch
|
427cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Elm Creek
|
0cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Muny Park
|
||
Lafayette Park
|
||
Gallagher Canyon State Rec Area - Cozad
|
West Midway Canyon
Willow Island