Wilson County State Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Dam Frd No 4
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wilson County State Lake, located in Roper, Kansas, is a state-owned reservoir situated along the Woodruff Branch of Buffalo Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1955 by the State Highway Commission, this Earth-type dam stands at 55 feet high and spans 1800 feet, providing a surface area of 119 acres for recreational activities and wildlife habitat. With a normal storage capacity of 1935 acre-feet and a drainage area of 10.61 square miles, the lake offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Wilson County State Lake is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure safety and environmental compliance. The dam, with a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, undergoes regular inspections every 3 years to maintain its structural integrity. Despite the absence of associated structures or federal agency involvement, the reservoir serves as a vital fish and wildlife pond for the local community, attracting outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of Wilson County.
With its serene location and diverse ecosystem, Wilson County State Lake remains a popular destination for fishing, boating, and nature appreciation in Kansas. As the state's primary source agency for dam management, the Kansas Department of Agriculture oversees the operations and maintenance of this essential water resource. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or climate-conscious individual, a visit to Wilson County State Lake promises a rewarding experience surrounded by the beauty of nature and the conservation efforts that sustain it.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1800 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
WOODRUFF BR BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
119 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
10.61 |
Nid Storage |
3924 |
Structural Height |
54 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Verdigris R Nr Altoona
|
206cfs |
Fall R At Fredonia
|
286cfs |
Neosho R Nr Iola
|
928cfs |
Verdigris R Nr Virgil
|
96cfs |
Otter C At Climax
|
15cfs |
Verdigris R At Independence
|
633cfs |
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.
Wilson County State Lake