Dd No 1-23b Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Dd No 1-23b, also known as Pawnee Watershed Dam 1-23b, is a local government-owned structure located in Pawnee, Kansas.


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Summary

This earth dam, designed by USDA NRCS, serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Cockelbur Creek. With a height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 1611.26 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Constructed with a buttress core type and an uncontrolled spillway, Dd No 1-23b has a hazard potential categorized as low and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. Despite not having outlet gates, this dam contributes significantly to flood control efforts in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 4728 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 17003 square feet.

Overall, Dd No 1-23b stands as a vital infrastructure asset in Pawnee County, effectively reducing flood risk and safeguarding the local community against potential water-related emergencies. With its strategic location, sound design, and state oversight, this dam exemplifies the importance of proper water resource management and climate resilience in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the area.

Dam Length

2960

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

COCKELBUR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17003

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

7.37

Nid Storage

1611.26

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.