Big Hill Dam, also known as Big Hill Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Labette, Kansas. Completed in 1981 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at 83 feet high, with a storage capacity of 39,540 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,192 acres. Its primary purposes include flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding area.

USACE has classified the risk of Big Hill Dam as low, with the primary risks being a flood exceeding the dam's capacity and erosion of the spillway. To manage and reduce these risks, USACE implements various measures such as routine inspections, emergency exercises, and updating the Emergency Action Plan annually. The dam is continuously monitored and maintained to ensure its structural integrity, with instrumentation and monitoring systems in place to evaluate changing conditions. Overall, Big Hill Dam plays a crucial role in protecting nearby communities from potential flooding events while providing essential water resources for the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Big Hill Dam to be a fascinating example of engineering excellence and risk management in the face of natural disasters. Its strategic location and design make it a vital asset for flood control and water supply in Labette, Kansas, showcasing the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding communities against environmental challenges.