Glen Elder Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Glen Elder Dam, located in Mitchell, Kansas, on the Solomon River, is a federal-owned structure operated by the Bureau of Reclamation.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, the Earth-type dam stands at a height of 142 feet and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, irrigation, recreation, and water supply. With a maximum storage capacity of 1,128,740 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 241,460 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water management in the region.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 600 feet, is controlled to manage water discharge effectively. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available. However, the emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared and last revised in July 2020, indicating the proactive measures in place to ensure public safety in the event of emergencies. With a very high risk assessment rating, the dam remains a critical infrastructure that requires regular inspection and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure its operational efficiency.
Glen Elder Dam's significance lies not only in flood risk reduction but also in its contribution to irrigation, recreation, and water supply in the region. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the dam's strategic location on the Solomon River underscores its vital role in water resource management in Kansas. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the maintenance and monitoring of infrastructure like Glen Elder Dam are essential to safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
15275 |
Dam Height |
142 |
River Or Stream |
SOLOMAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13500 |
Hydraulic Height |
115 |
Drainage Area |
2520 |
Nid Storage |
1128740 |
Structural Height |
142 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
142 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Solomon R Nr Glen Elder
|
13cfs |
Solomon R At Beloit
|
19cfs |
Nf Solomon R At Portis
|
22cfs |
Sf Solomon R At Osborne
|
7cfs |
White Rock C Nr Burr Oak
|
5cfs |
Republican R At Scandia
|
110cfs |
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.
Glen Elder