Summary
Built in 1969 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28 feet. With a length of 591 feet and a storage capacity of 184 acre-feet, Kraus Dam plays a vital role in managing the flow of the Smoky Hill River-TR.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Kraus Dam is subject to moderate risk, with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 140 feet, and it has no outlet gates or associated locks. While the dam has not been inspected since 2005, it remains a crucial piece of infrastructure in the region, providing irrigation water and flood control for the surrounding area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Kraus Dam to be a fascinating structure, with its unique design and historical significance. As one of the many dams in Kansas that help regulate water flow and storage, Kraus Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper infrastructure in managing water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam represents a balance between safety and functionality in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
591 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SMOKY HILL RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.59 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1.46 |
Nid Storage |
184 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smoky Hill R Nr Schoenchen
|
2cfs |
Smoky Hill R Bl Schoenchen
|
1cfs |
Big C Nr Hays
|
4cfs |
Smoky Hill R At Pfeifer
|
1cfs |
Walnut C At Nekoma
|
3cfs |
Walnut C At Albert
|
0cfs |
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.
Kraus Dam