Sappa Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sappa Lake Dam, also known as Oberlin Sappa Park Earth Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Decatur, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 440 feet along Sappa Creek. The dam has a storage capacity of 1162 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 807 acre-feet, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Sappa Lake Dam is regulated and inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as having a moderate risk level, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures. The dam's spillway is designed as uncontrolled, and it currently does not have outlet gates or associated locks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sappa Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical water infrastructure for the benefit of local communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

SAPPA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

1132.43

Nid Storage

1162

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.