Summary
Built in 1964 by Foster and Company, this earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and spans a length of 1860 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 5650 acre-feet. Situated on the North Fork Smoky Hill River, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water supply management in Sherman County.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite the lack of a specific primary purpose listed, the dam's significance lies in its ability to regulate water flow and provide essential water resources for the surrounding area. The Kansas Department of Agriculture oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of the dam, ensuring its safety and functionality for the community.
With its buttress core design and state-regulated status, Sherman County State Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in the face of changing climates. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the role of such structures in sustaining ecosystems and communities is essential for promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
1860 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK SMOKY HILL RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Nid Storage |
5650 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
53 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Sherman County State Lake Dam