Lake Sherwood Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Sherwood in Shawnee, Kansas, is a private recreational lake constructed in 1964 by Allied Engineering Co.


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Summary

The dam, known as Sherwood Dam, stands at a height of 53.75 feet and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities. Situated along Shunganunga Creek, the lake covers a surface area of 193 acres and has a drainage area of 8.1 square miles.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Lake Sherwood offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a maximum storage capacity of 5,460 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2,700 acre-feet, the lake provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. While the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, its fair condition assessment and moderate risk assessment (rated 3 out of 5) indicate a well-maintained and safe recreational environment.

Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Topeka, Lake Sherwood is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation. From its uncontrolled spillway to its buttress core type, the dam showcases impressive engineering feats while offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. With its proximity to the city and state-regulated operations, Lake Sherwood stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and sustainable recreation in the heart of Kansas.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1630

Dam Height

53.75

River Or Stream

SHUNGANUNGA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

193

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

8.1

Nid Storage

5460

Structural Height

68

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

68
       
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.