Elk City Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Elk City Dam, also known as Elk City Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Montgomery, Kansas.
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Summary
Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 107 feet and has a storage capacity of 850,405 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with additional functions including recreation and water supply. The dam spans 4,840 feet in length and has a spillway width of 400 feet, designed to handle a maximum discharge of 120,800 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as a high hazard potential dam, the risk of failure at Elk City Dam is considered low due to its low probability of failure and low population at risk downstream. The primary risk lies in erosion along the conduit passing through the dam, which could lead to slow-to-develop failure during rare high pool events. To manage and reduce risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has implemented various measures including routine inspections, emergency exercises, and maintenance activities. Additionally, the dam is equipped with instrumentation and monitoring systems to track changing conditions and ensure structural integrity.
In the event of a large flood, advanced warning systems would be in place to mitigate potential impacts on nearby communities such as Independence and Coffeyville. Despite the risks associated with normal dam operations, USACE's proactive risk management approach aims to safeguard lives and minimize economic losses. Overall, Elk City Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for flood protection and water resource management, supported by continuous efforts to enhance its safety and resilience.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
4840 |
Dam Height |
107 |
River Or Stream |
ELK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4440 |
Hydraulic Height |
102 |
Drainage Area |
634 |
Nid Storage |
850405 |
Structural Height |
107 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
107 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Verdigris R At Independence
|
179cfs |
Verdigris R Nr Altoona
|
57cfs |
Fall R At Fredonia
|
72cfs |
Verdigris R At Coffeyville
|
183cfs |
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
27cfs |
Verdigris River Near Lenapah
|
227cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Outlet Channel - Elk City Lake
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Elk City State Park
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Card Creek - Elk City Lake
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Norman No.1 Museum RV Park
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Elk City Dam