Barber State Fishing Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jack Mott Dam Arrowhead Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Barber State Fishing Lake, located in Medicine Lodge, Kansas, is a picturesque Earth dam structure on Elm Creek-TR that serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and water supply.
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Summary
Completed in 1954, the dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 1900 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 680 acre-feet. The lake spans a surface area of 77 acres and has a drainage area of 3.71 square miles, making it a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Barber State Fishing Lake boasts a spillway width of 200 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 5000 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition and undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity. The surrounding area offers a serene escape for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, making it a popular destination for nature lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Kansas' natural landscape.
With State jurisdiction and regulation, Barber State Fishing Lake is a well-maintained recreational haven that also plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and water supply. Surrounded by the stunning scenery of Barber County, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. Whether you're a fishing enthusiast, a nature lover, or a climate advocate, Barber State Fishing Lake offers a tranquil retreat where you can appreciate the intersection of water resources and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
1325 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
ELM CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
77 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
3.71 |
Nid Storage |
1900 |
Structural Height |
54 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Medicine Lodge R Nr Kiowa
|
110cfs |
Sf Ninnescah R Nr Pratt
|
8cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River Nr Alva
|
94cfs |
Rattlesnake C Nr Macksville
|
1cfs |
Sf Ninnescah R Nr Murdock
|
159cfs |
Nf Ninnescah R Ab Cheney Re
|
81cfs |
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.
Barber State Fishing Lake