Kelsey #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 6, 2026

Located in Lakin, Kansas, Kelsey #1 is a privately owned irrigation dam on North Horse Creek-TR in Kiowa County, Colorado.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 536 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of irrigation, the dam also serves functions such as fire protection, stock watering, and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Kelsey #1 is considered to have a high risk level due to its condition assessment not being rated. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in 1987, and it is currently not subject to regular inspection. The absence of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and other risk management measures raises concerns about the dam's overall safety and readiness to handle potential emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kelsey #1 presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation dam in need of updated inspection, maintenance, and emergency preparedness. The data surrounding this dam highlights the importance of regular monitoring and risk assessment for maintaining the safety and functionality of critical water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water resource demands.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

536

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

NORTH HORSE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

69

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.