Ballew Gsd No 21 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ballew Gsd No 21, also known as Little Delaware Mission Cr WS Dam 21, is a local government-owned structure located in Horton, Kansas.


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Summary

This earth dam primarily serves the purpose of debris control along Grasshopper Creek-TR. Designed by the USDA NRCS, the dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a length of 620 feet. It has a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5.08 acres, making it a crucial asset for managing water resources in the region.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Ballew Gsd No 21 plays a vital role in mitigating potential risks associated with its operation. Although the dam has not been inspected since August 2005 and is currently rated as "Not Rated" for its condition assessment, it still serves as a key structure for water resource management in Brown County, Kansas. While it may not be state-regulated or permitted, its presence contributes to the overall resilience of the local water infrastructure in the area.

Despite its age and lack of recent inspections, Ballew Gsd No 21 remains an important component of the water management system in the region. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam continues to provide valuable debris control and water storage capabilities along Grasshopper Creek-TR. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Ballew Gsd No 21 will become even more crucial in ensuring the sustainable management of water in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

GRASSHOPPER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.08

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.