Keller Dam 3686 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ziegler Dam Ott Dam 1165
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Keller Dam 3686, located in Harlan, Nebraska, was completed in 1976 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Mill Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 11.9 feet with a hydraulic height of 8.9 feet, providing a storage capacity of 91.9 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and repair to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks.
Managed by a private owner, Keller Dam 3686 is regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to uphold safety standards. The dam's location in Congressional District 03, Nebraska, places it under the representation of Adrian Smith (R) in matters concerning federal oversight. With a drainage area of 0.69 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 251 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Despite its age, Keller Dam 3686 remains a key asset in the flood risk reduction infrastructure of Nebraska. As climate change brings about more frequent and intense precipitation events, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Keller Dam 3686 are essential in protecting communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather. Continued monitoring and investment in infrastructure resilience will be vital in ensuring the long-term effectiveness of this critical water resource management structure.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
11.9 |
River Or Stream |
Mill Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.69 |
Nid Storage |
91.9 |
Structural Height |
11.9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Republican River Near Orleans
|
59cfs |
Sappa Creek Near Stamford
|
4cfs |
Prairie Dog C Nr Woodruff
|
0cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Beaver City
|
1cfs |
Platte River Near Kearney
|
1810cfs |
Nf Solomon R At Glade
|
8cfs |
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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