Mary's Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mary's Lake Dam in Eudora, Kansas, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of USDA SCS designers who completed the structure in 1953.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, primarily used for recreation, boasts a height of 27 feet and a drainage area of 0.3 square miles, providing storage of up to 32 acre-feet of water in Mary's Lake. The dam's buttress core type and unlisted foundation contribute to its structural integrity, ensuring its hazard potential remains low.

Despite being privately owned, Mary's Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permits or inspections. The dam's purpose extends beyond recreation to include providing a habitat for fish and wildlife in the area. With its location on the Wakarusa River, the dam serves as a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene escape in Douglas County, Kansas. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its low hazard potential and historical significance make it a valuable asset in the region.

As a key feature in the local landscape, Mary's Lake Dam continues to attract visitors seeking a tranquil setting for fishing, wildlife observation, and recreational activities. With its rich history and picturesque surroundings, the dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the heart of Kansas. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike appreciate the dam's contributions to the community, Mary's Lake Dam remains a symbol of harmony between human development and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

WAKARUSA RIVER-TR

Surface Area

4.8

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

32

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.
View more

Area Campgrounds