Paradise Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Paradise Lake, located in Atchison, Kansas, is a privately owned reservoir designed by the USDA NRCS for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam is an earth type structure with a height of 33 feet and a hydraulic height of 35 feet, providing a storage capacity of 650 acre-feet. The lake sits on the NORTH FORK STRANGER CREEK-TR and is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, ensuring state inspection, permitting, and enforcement.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated", Paradise Lake remains a vital resource for water supply and recreational activities in the region. The dam has a spillway width of 65 feet and a maximum discharge of 1325 cubic feet per second, enhancing its ability to manage water flow during peak periods. Although the last inspection dates back to 2002, the structure has consistently met state regulatory standards and is maintained for public safety.
As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Paradise Lake contributes to the resilience of the community against climate-related challenges. With its strategic location and design features, the reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and ecosystem preservation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, Paradise Lake serves as a symbol of sustainable practices and the importance of safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK STRANGER CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
650 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Delaware R Nr Muscotah
|
37cfs |
Stranger C Nr Potter
|
199cfs |
Missouri River At St. Joseph
|
27300cfs |
Delaware R Bl Perry Dam
|
131cfs |
Platte River At Sharps Station
|
79cfs |
Kansas R At Lecompton
|
1880cfs |
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.
Paradise Lake