Kingsley Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cure Creek 1-A Ogallala 7 (East Dam)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kingsley, a hydroelectric dam located on the North Platte River in Nebraska, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate concerns.
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Summary
Completed in 1941 with a dam height of 162 feet and a storage capacity of 1,900,600 acre-feet, Kingsley serves both hydroelectric power generation and irrigation purposes. Its controlled spillway, slide gates, and stone core make it a critical infrastructure for the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Kingsley is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety and environmental compliance. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are crucial to mitigating potential disasters. Despite its age, Kingsley continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
As climate change poses new challenges to water resource management, Kingsley remains a focal point for understanding the impacts of extreme weather events on dam safety and resilience. With its historical significance and continued operational importance, Kingsley serves as a case study for balancing the demands of energy production, irrigation needs, and environmental protection in a changing climate. The collaborative efforts of federal and state agencies in regulating and maintaining Kingsley underscore the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding critical water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
17840 |
Dam Height |
162 |
River Or Stream |
North Platte River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30500 |
Nid Storage |
1900600 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 12 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
162 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Platte River At Roscoe Nebr
|
209cfs |
S. Platte R. At Julesburg
|
-999cfs |
South Platte River At North Platte
|
1290cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
K-1 Cabin Area
|
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Martin Bay
|
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Ogallala Beach Campground
|
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Little Thunder
|
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Arthur Bay
|
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Sandy Beach
|
Kingsley
South Ramp