Tuttle Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tuttle Creek Dam, also known as Tuttle Creek Lake, is a federally owned structure located in Manhattan, Kansas, along the Big Blue River.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this rockfill dam stands at a structural height of 157 feet and has a total length of 7,500 feet. The dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional purposes including fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and navigation.

With a maximum storage capacity of 2,257,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 335,100 acre-feet, Tuttle Creek Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 839 feet, helps regulate water levels during high flow events. Despite being categorized with a high hazard potential, the US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages dam-related flood risks through regular inspections, maintenance, and collaboration with local emergency managers to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Kansas, Tuttle Creek Dam showcases the importance of effective risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding communities against potential flooding events. With ongoing monitoring and strategic interventions in place, the dam continues to fulfill its critical role in protecting downstream areas and supporting various water-related activities in the region.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

7500

River Or Stream

BIG BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

13350

Hydraulic Height

157

Drainage Area

9628

Nid Storage

2257000

Structural Height

157

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

157
       
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.