Lovewell Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lovewell Dam, located in Jewell County, Kansas, is a federal structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 93 feet and has a hydraulic height of 75 feet, providing critical protection to the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 186,290 acre-feet and a normal storage of 41,690 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam also serves multiple purposes including irrigation and recreation, making it a versatile and valuable asset for the community. With a high hazard potential due to its location on White Rock Creek, Lovewell Dam undergoes regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures in place to mitigate any potential threats.
Despite its age, Lovewell Dam continues to be a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and flood control in the area. As climate change brings about more extreme weather events, the role of dams like Lovewell in safeguarding communities and ecosystems becomes increasingly significant. The dedication of federal agencies like the Bureau of Reclamation in overseeing the operations and maintenance of this essential structure underscores the commitment to ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
8500 |
Dam Height |
93 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7635 |
Hydraulic Height |
75 |
Drainage Area |
353 |
Nid Storage |
186290 |
Structural Height |
93 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
93 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lovewell