Located on the Platte River in Maxwell, Nebraska, the Diversion Dam is a concrete gravity dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. Completed in 1941, the dam stands at a height of 21.2 feet and has a structural height of 22.7 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 17 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 40,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in irrigation and hydroelectric power production in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Diversion Dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 874 feet. The dam is equipped with 21 Tainter radial gates for water release control. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk due to its age and condition assessment not being available. However, with no state regulation or permitting required, the dam continues to operate under federal oversight, providing vital water resources and power to the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Diversion Dam serves as a fascinating example of early 20th-century infrastructure designed for multi-purpose use. Its location on the Platte River not only facilitates irrigation and hydroelectric power generation but also contributes to the overall water management in the region. As efforts continue to assess and manage the risk associated with the dam, its historical significance and operational importance remain key aspects for further study and conservation in the realm of water resource management and climate adaptation.