Kaupp West Irrigation Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Kaupp West Irrigation Dam, located in Niobrara, Nebraska, is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a hydraulic height of 29 feet. With a storage capacity of 712 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 31 acres and is situated on Indian Creek in Keya Paha County.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and improvements. The last inspection in May 2019 highlighted this concern, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and upkeep to ensure the structure's safety and functionality. Managed by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, the dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement to uphold water resource management standards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kaupp West Irrigation Dam presents a significant site for understanding the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As a crucial component of the local irrigation system, this dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. Its maintenance and upkeep are essential to ensure the sustainable use of water resources and the protection of surrounding ecosystems.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

506

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

12.9

Nid Storage

712

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.