Augusta Waterworks Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Augusta Waterworks Dam, located in Augusta, Kansas, serves as a vital structure for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a hydraulic height of 36 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam spans 1200 feet in length and creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 3432 acre-feet, providing valuable water resources for the area.

Managed by the local government, the Augusta Waterworks Dam is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines. With a hazard potential classified as high, the dam is regularly inspected every three years to assess its condition. Despite being rated as in fair condition, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

Surrounded by the scenic Elm Creek and offering a surface area of 181 acres for recreational activities, the Augusta Waterworks Dam is a significant landmark in Butler County, Kansas. As water levels are controlled through an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 230 feet, visitors can appreciate the engineering marvel of this structure while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Whether for leisure or ecological appreciation, the Augusta Waterworks Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

181

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

7.8

Nid Storage

3432

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.