Spearow Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Us 77 Road Fill Dam 2
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Spearow Dam, located in Pottawatomie County, Kansas, is a private-owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1964.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 52 feet with a hydraulic height of 35 feet, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a maximum storage capacity of 109 acre-feet and a normal storage of 63 acre-feet, Spearow Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
The dam is regulated and inspected by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Spearow Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, and there is limited information available regarding its risk assessment and management measures. However, with its strategic location on the Big Blue River-TR, Spearow Dam remains a key infrastructure for water supply, flood control, and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spearow Dam stands as a notable structure in Kansas, contributing to the management of water resources and supporting various ecological functions. Its construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflects a commitment to sustainable water management practices. As stakeholders continue to monitor and assess the condition of Spearow Dam, there is an opportunity to further enhance its operations and emergency preparedness to ensure the long-term resilience of this essential infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BLUE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.51 |
Nid Storage |
109 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fancy C At Winkler
|
8cfs |
Big Blue R Nr Manhattan
|
384cfs |
Rock C Nr Louisville
|
16cfs |
Kings C Nr Manhattan
|
0cfs |
Republican R At Clay Center
|
122cfs |
Black Vermillion R Nr Frankfort
|
43cfs |
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.
Spearow Dam
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