Ogallala 6 (West Dam) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ogallala 6 (West Dam) in Nebraska is a vital structure designed by Miller & Associates in 1989 for the purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-SOUTH PLATTE RIVER.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 46 feet, providing a NID height of 46 feet. With a length of 800 feet and a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the NE DNR, Ogallala 6 (West Dam) has a high hazard potential but is currently in a satisfactory condition as per the last assessment in August 2020. With a drainage area of 0.55 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 3380 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a key infrastructure for flood control and water management in Keith County, Nebraska.

Located in OGALLALA, this dam not only mitigates flood risks but also contributes to the overall water resource management in the area. With its strategic design and location along the South Platte River, Ogallala 6 (West Dam) stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local governments, designers, and regulatory agencies in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH PLATTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

0.55

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.