Mcpherson County State Lake Dam, also known as Maxwell Game Refuge, is a state-owned dam located in McPherson, Kansas. Completed in 1954, this dam on Battle Creek serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities. With a height of 51 feet and a hydraulic height of 47 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 980 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 540 acre-feet.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. The structure, designed by Wilson and Company, features a buttress core type and spans a length of 720 feet. In the event of high water levels, the dam has a spillway width of 230 feet to safely release excess water. The surrounding area offers a variety of recreational opportunities, making Mcpherson County State Lake Dam a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature.

Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Mcpherson County State Lake Dam is currently not rated. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are not explicitly outlined in the available data, indicating a potential area for improvement in ensuring the safety and resilience of this vital water resource infrastructure. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water resource management, the importance of proactive measures and regular inspections for dams like Mcpherson County State Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial in safeguarding both the environment and public safety.