Webster Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Webster is a federal-owned structure located in Stockton, Kansas, along the South Fork Solomon River.


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Summary

Built in 1955 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth dam stands at a height of 154 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional benefits for irrigation. The dam has a storage capacity of 401,650 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 11,493 acres and draining an area of 1,150 square miles.

With a maximum discharge capacity of 138,000 cubic feet per second and a controlled spillway width of 100 feet, Webster poses a high hazard potential due to its large hydraulic and structural heights. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam's risk assessment is classified as very high, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. The Emergency Action Plan was last revised in September 2020, indicating preparedness for any potential emergencies that may arise.

Overall, Webster serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water management in the region, reflecting the intricate balance between harnessing water resources for human benefit while mitigating potential risks to lives and property. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring structures like Webster are crucial in safeguarding our environment and communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

10720

Dam Height

154

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK SOLOMON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11493

Hydraulic Height

96

Drainage Area

1150

Nid Storage

401650

Structural Height

154

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

154
       
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.