Summary
The dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a hydraulic height of 35 feet, with a length of 620 feet. It impounds Little Beaver Creek-TR, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 24.2 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 141.08 acre-feet.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment of fair, Hawkins Dam poses a significant risk, as indicated by its very high (1) risk assessment. Despite its risk level, the dam currently does not have an emergency action plan (EAP) in place. The dam has no outlet gates and features a controlled spillway type. Its owner, the state of Kansas, is responsible for its regulation, inspection, and enforcement, with the Kansas Department of Agriculture overseeing its state jurisdiction.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hawkins Dam presents an opportunity to explore the engineering and environmental aspects of dam construction and regulation. Its location in Atwood, Kansas, within the Omaha District of the USACE, offers a unique perspective on the management of water resources in the region. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, this earth-fill dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies like the USDA NRCS in ensuring water supply and flood control for local communities.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BEAVER CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
141.08 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Hawkins Dam