Glen Elder -Cawker City Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Glen Elder-Cawker City Dike in Kansas, managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, stands as a vital structure for flood risk reduction in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1969, this earth dam boasts a height of 52 feet and a length of 15,600 feet, providing critical protection to the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 241,460 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1,128,740 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks.
Situated in Mitchell County, Kansas, the Glen Elder-Cawker City Dike holds a high hazard potential and has a risk assessment rating of 2, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the community from potential disasters. While the condition assessment is not currently available, regular inspections and emergency action plans ensure that this key infrastructure remains in top shape for effective flood control. With no spillway and a rock foundation, the dam's design and construction by the Bureau of Reclamation underscore its significance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts closely monitor the Glen Elder-Cawker City Dike, its essential role in flood risk reduction and water storage cannot be understated. With a capacity to handle large volumes of water and a strategic location along the Kansas City District, this federal-owned structure continues to play a crucial role in protecting the local community and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
15600 |
Dam Height |
52 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13500 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
2520 |
Nid Storage |
1128740 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Solomon R Nr Glen Elder
|
13cfs |
Nf Solomon R At Portis
|
22cfs |
Sf Solomon R At Osborne
|
7cfs |
Solomon R At Beloit
|
19cfs |
White Rock C Nr Burr Oak
|
5cfs |
Saline R At Wilson Dam
|
9cfs |
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 -Cawker City Dike