Lake Elbo Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Elbo, located in St.


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Summary

George, Kansas, is a privately owned reservoir built in 1949 for recreational purposes. The dam, designed by MCCORD AND CO, stands at a height of 33 feet and has a storage capacity of 495 acre-feet. The reservoir is fed by Elbo Creek and covers a surface area of unspecified size. With a maximum discharge of 3000 cubic feet per second, Lake Elbo serves as both a scenic recreational spot and a vital water resource in Pottawatomie County.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Lake Elbo is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam, classified as a buttress type, has a spillway width of 95 feet and a high hazard potential rating. Despite being not rated for its condition, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to assess any potential risks and ensure proper maintenance. While the emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are not specified, Lake Elbo remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Overall, Lake Elbo serves as a significant water resource and recreational destination in Kansas. With its picturesque surroundings and high hazard potential, the dam requires regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of nearby residents and visitors. As a privately owned reservoir, it provides a valuable source of water storage and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a key feature in the local landscape and a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

ELBO CREEK

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

495

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.