Diversion Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pieper Dam Maloney
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located on the Platte River in Maxwell, Nebraska, the Diversion Dam is a concrete gravity dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
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.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
874 |
Dam Height |
21.2 |
River Or Stream |
Platte River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
10.7 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
22.7 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Platte River At North Platte
|
1290cfs |
Dismal River Near Thedford
|
272cfs |
South Platte River At Roscoe Nebr
|
213cfs |
Frenchman Creek At Palisade
|
21cfs |
Middle Loup River At Dunning
|
526cfs |
Red Willow Creek Near Red Willow
|
4cfs |
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.
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