Douglas County State Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Douglas County State Lake Dam, located in Sibleyville, Kansas, is a vital structure managed by the state for fish and wildlife conservation and recreational activities.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by Wilson and Co, this earth dam stands at a height of 58.1 feet and spans a length of 2280 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 6150 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to support a fish and wildlife pond, with a surface area of 180 acres and a drainage area of 3.84 square miles, fed by Coal Creek.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the Douglas County State Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of 3 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential and a fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk (3) to the surrounding area. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 100 feet, and the dam does not have any outlet gates. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, providing essential habitat for wildlife and a recreational space for the community.

Situated in the Tulsa District of Kansas, the Douglas County State Lake Dam is a key component of the local ecosystem and an important water resource for the region. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location along Coal Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and supporting biodiversity in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam represents a fascinating intersection of engineering, conservation, and recreation, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the resilience and health of our ecosystems.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

2280

Dam Height

58.1

River Or Stream

COAL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

180

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

3.84

Nid Storage

6150

Structural Height

70

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

70
       
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.