Cedar Bluff Re Nr Ellis Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cedar Bluff Reservoir is located near Ellis, Kansas, and was created in 1951 by the construction of a dam on the Smoky Hill River.


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Summary

The reservoir covers 6,800 acres and has a maximum depth of 60 feet. It serves as a water supply for irrigation, municipal, and industrial use.

Hydrologically, the reservoir is fed by the Smoky Hill River and other smaller streams. Its surface flow comes from surface runoff and precipitation, while snowpack providers contribute to the reservoir during the winter months.

Agricultural and recreational uses of the reservoir include fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. The reservoir is home to several species of fish, including walleye, bass, and catfish. The surrounding area is used for farming, and the reservoir provides irrigation water for crops in the region. Overall, Cedar Bluff Reservoir plays an essential role in providing water for both agricultural and urban purposes in western Kansas.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.0%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 2,116.95 ft
2018-05-28
Maximum 2,134.7 ft
2020-05-25
Average 2,125 ft
Dam_Height 202
Hydraulic_Height 128
Drainage_Area 5340
Years_Modified 1998 - Structural
Year_Completed 1951
Nid_Storage 730180
Structural_Height 202
River_Or_Stream SMOKY HILL RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 10790
Hazard_Potential High
Dam_Length 12560
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 202
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

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.