Aiken Dd No 1, also known as Aiken Creek Watershed Detention Dam 1, is a crucial structure in Chautauqua, Kansas, designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along Bee Creek. Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and spans a length of 980 feet, with a storage capacity of 3200 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Aiken Dd No 1 plays a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation during extreme weather events.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Aiken Dd No 1 is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Located in Havana, Kansas, this dam is situated in a strategic position to protect the community and infrastructure from the impacts of flooding. With a drainage area of 10.5 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 4050 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a critical component of the water resource management system in the region.

While the condition assessment of Aiken Dd No 1 is currently not rated, its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are under review. With its designation as a low-hazard structure, this dam remains a key asset in the efforts to mitigate flood risks and protect the environment and communities in Chautauqua County. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Aiken Dd No 1 offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and climate resilience.