Snell Canyon, located in Brady, Nebraska, is a hydroelectric dam with a primary purpose of generating power and providing irrigation water. Completed in 1941, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and has a structural height of 26 feet. Its reservoir has a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 360 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 53 acres and draining a 21.3 square mile watershed.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Snell Canyon Dam is inspected regularly for safety and regulatory compliance. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam poses a high risk due to its age and lack of updated risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures. The surrounding area is represented by Congressman Adrian Smith and falls under the jurisdiction of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts would be fascinated by the history and operational details of Snell Canyon Dam. As a vital infrastructure for both hydroelectric power generation and irrigation purposes, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and resource utilization in the Lincoln County region of Nebraska. Its unique design, construction, and ongoing maintenance challenges make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.