Elk City Dam, also known as Elk City Levee, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located on the Elk River in Independence, Kansas. Constructed in 1966 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at 107 feet tall and spans 4840 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 850,405 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 46,122 acre-feet, Elk City Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 400 feet wide and has a maximum discharge capacity of 120,800 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, Elk City Dam has an Emergency Action Plan in place and meets all guidelines for risk assessment and management. The US Army Corps of Engineers constantly monitors and maintains the dam to ensure its structural integrity and works closely with local authorities to prepare for any potential emergencies.

In the face of unpredictable weather events and the ever-present threat of flooding, Elk City Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive risk management and collaboration between federal agencies and local stakeholders. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, Elk City Dam remains a crucial line of defense in protecting the surrounding communities from the devastating effects of flooding.