Keifer Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gibson Dam Johnston & Thompson Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Keifer Dam, located in Superior, Nebraska, along the TR-Republican River, serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1960, stands at a height of 28.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 197 acre-feet. Despite its importance in mitigating flood hazards, the dam's condition assessment is listed as poor, highlighting the need for continued maintenance and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure its long-term effectiveness.
Managed by a private entity and regulated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, Keifer Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures. While the dam's hazard potential is classified as low, its poor condition assessment raises concerns about its ability to withstand future flood events. With a drainage area of 2.56 square miles and a surface area of 17.5 acres, the dam plays a critical role in protecting the surrounding Nuckolls County community from potential flooding, making its upkeep and structural integrity vital for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
As a key component of flood risk reduction infrastructure in Nebraska, Keifer Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water resources in the face of changing climate patterns. With its earth dam construction and stone core, the dam stands as a testament to human efforts to manage and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. However, the dam's poor condition assessment underscores the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with safeguarding our water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
28.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-REPUBLICAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
28.2 |
Drainage Area |
2.56 |
Nid Storage |
197 |
Structural Height |
28.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Keifer Dam