Dd No 2-5 (Stairrett) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dd No 2-5 (Stairrett), also known as Pawnee Watershed Dam 2-5, is a locally owned earth dam located in Burdett, Hodgeman County, Kansas.


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Summary

The dam was designed by USDA NRCS and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Sand Creek-TR river. With a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 558.34 acre-feet, Dd No 2-5 plays a crucial role in managing water levels and controlling potential flooding in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Dd No 2-5 is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet, allowing for the controlled release of excess water during heavy rainfall events. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is equipped to handle potential risks and emergencies, although specific risk management measures are not currently reported.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the infrastructure and management of dams will find Dd No 2-5 (Stairrett) to be a fascinating case study in flood risk reduction and water conservation efforts. Located within the Kansas City District and designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam demonstrates the importance of proactive regulatory measures and regular inspections to ensure the safety and effectiveness of water infrastructure projects. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Dd No 2-5 serves as a vital component in the protection and management of water resources in the Hodgeman County area.

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

SAND CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

2.25

Nid Storage

558.34

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.