Polk Daniels Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Polk Daniels Lake, also known as Howard City Dam, is a picturesque water resource located in Elk County, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water supply, making it a valuable asset to the local community. With a height of 46 feet and a length of 850 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 920 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 60.2 acres.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Polk Daniels Lake is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is situated on Game Creek and offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with inspections conducted every five years to monitor its integrity.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Polk Daniels Lake serves as a prime example of how man-made structures can positively impact the environment while providing essential services to local communities. With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, this dam is not only a vital water supply source but also a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Whether enjoying a peaceful day by the water or marveling at the engineering marvel of the dam itself, visitors to Polk Daniels Lake can appreciate the intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

GAME CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60.2

Drainage Area

9.23

Nid Storage

920

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

46
       
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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.