Keystone Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Keystone Diversion, located in North Platte, Nebraska, is a public utility facility primarily designed for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam, completed in 1935, stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 460 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 4200 acre-feet. It is situated on the North Platte River and is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

With a controlled spillway width of 1279 feet, Keystone Diversion has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The dam features Tainter and Vertical Lift outlet gates for operational control. While the condition assessment is not available, the facility undergoes inspections every 3 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, Keystone Diversion continues to play a vital role in water resource management and renewable energy production in the region.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Keith County, Nebraska, Keystone Diversion serves as a crucial water management tool for the local community. With its multi-purpose design and historical significance, the facility contributes to the sustainable use of water resources and supports the agricultural sector through irrigation. As climate change impacts continue to affect water availability and hydroelectric power generation, Keystone Diversion remains essential in adapting to these challenges and ensuring the resilience of the region's water supply and energy needs.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

North Platte

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

640

Drainage Area

29400

Nid Storage

4200

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 8, Vertical Lift - 8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.