Downs Protective Dike (Waconda Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Downs Protective Dike, also known as Waconda, is a federal-owned structure located in Osborne County, Kansas.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this buttress dam stands at a height of 90 feet, with a hydraulic height of 46 feet and a length of 19,800 feet. Its primary purpose is to provide flood protection for the Solomon River offstream, with a maximum storage capacity of 1,129,000 acre-feet.

This high-hazard potential dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 241,500 acre-feet. Despite its importance, the Downs Protective Dike has not been rated for its condition and lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). The structure is associated with another dam (KS00021S002) and has a designated inspection frequency of 3.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Downs Protective Dike a fascinating structure that exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, hydrology, and environmental protection. Its presence in the picturesque landscape of Osborne County, Kansas, serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to manage and safeguard our water resources in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

19800

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

SOLOMON RIVER OFFSTREAM

Hydraulic Height

46

Nid Storage

1129000

Structural Height

90

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

90
       
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.