Lake Darrynane Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Darrynane, located in Stafford County, Kansas, is a federally owned water resource managed by the Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Built in 1955 on Rattlesnake Creek, this buttress dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and an inspection frequency of 3 years, the condition of the dam is currently not rated.

Surrounded by the picturesque landscape of Hutchinson, Lake Darrynane serves as a vital water source for the region, providing a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 50 acre-feet. Despite its critical role in water management, the dam's condition assessment is pending, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and safety.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Lake Darrynane an intriguing case study, with its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century. As a key structure in the Kansas City District, its operation and maintenance are crucial for safeguarding both the local community and the environment. The dam's location on Rattlesnake Creek adds to its ecological importance, making it a symbol of the delicate balance between human development and natural conservation in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

RATTLESNAKE CREEK

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.
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