Associated Press - November 19, 2009 9:15 AM ET

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Public Power District hopes to begin repairs soon on the 73-year-old dam holding back Lake Maloney, south of North Platte in western Nebraska.

After drawing down the water level, NPPD discovered what it is describing as a separation of the foundation for slope protection.

NPPD says the problem must be fixed, but it doesn't appear to be an emergency.

Bids are being sought for the repairs, which NPPD estimates will cost between $4 million and $6 million.

Officials hope the work will be finished by April.

NPPD says Lake Maloney is a regulating reservoir providing water for the North Platte hydroelectric plant and irrigation downstream.

On the Net:

NPPD: http://www.nppd.com/

Information from: KNOP-TV, http://www.knopnews2.com

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