Kiefer Dam-1919 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kiefer Dam-1919, also known as Ottawa Storage Dam No1, is a historic dam located in Ottawa, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1919 by an unknown designer, this buttress-style dam stands at a height of 13 feet and serves the primary purpose of water supply. Situated on the Marais Des Cygnes River, the dam has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and has been regulated and permitted by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Despite its age, Kiefer Dam-1919 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam has not undergone any major modifications in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place. However, it is regularly inspected and meets state regulatory guidelines for operation and maintenance. The dam's location in Franklin County, Kansas, makes it an important water resource for the local community.

With its rich history and crucial role in providing water supply to the region, Kiefer Dam-1919 is a significant landmark in Ottawa, Kansas. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Kiefer Dam-1919 becomes increasingly important to ensure sustainable water management for future generations. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Kiefer Dam-1919 to be an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environment, and conservation efforts.

Dam Length

165

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

MARAIS DES CYGNES RIVER

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.