Upper Wiedemann Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lower Wiedemann Dam Feist Ranch
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Wiedemann Dam is a private-owned structure located in Reece, Kansas, along Spring Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1973, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, as well as recreation. With a height of 46.5 feet and a storage capacity of 435 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in water resource management in the area.
Despite its importance, Upper Wiedemann Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The dam has a moderate risk rating and is inspected every 5 years. The spillway, with a width of 70 feet, is uncontrolled, presenting challenges for managing potential excess water discharge. The dam's location in a rural area highlights the importance of maintaining its structural integrity to prevent any potential risks to the surrounding community.
Efforts to improve the condition and safety of Upper Wiedemann Dam are crucial to ensure its continued functionality and protection of the local environment. With the Kansas Department of Agriculture as the state regulatory agency overseeing its operations, the dam serves as a vital resource for water supply and conservation in Butler County. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the complex management required for maintaining this essential infrastructure in a changing environment.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
46.5 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
0.39 |
Nid Storage |
435 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
47 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Otter C At Climax
|
22cfs |
Whitewater R At Towanda
|
64cfs |
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
41cfs |
Verdigris R Nr Virgil
|
183cfs |
Cedar C Nr Cedar Point
|
61cfs |
Fall R At Fredonia
|
384cfs |
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.
Upper Wiedemann Dam