Big Hill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Big Hill Dam, also known as Big Hill Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Labette, Kansas.


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Summary

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.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

3902

Dam Height

83

River Or Stream

BIG HILL CK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1192

Hydraulic Height

78

Drainage Area

37

Nid Storage

39540

Structural Height

83

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

83
       
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.