Lake Miola Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Miola, also known as Miola Lake Dam, is a key water resource located in Paola, Kansas.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this earth-type dam was designed by USDA SCS and completed in 1957 for the primary purpose of water supply. With a height of 44 feet and a storage capacity of 6095 acre-feet, the dam plays a critical role in providing water to the surrounding community.

Situated on the Dorsey Branch river, Lake Miola spans 215 acres with a drainage area of 5.73 square miles. The dam's spillway width of 100 feet and maximum discharge rate of 5400 cubic feet per second ensure effective water management during high-flow events. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as per the last inspection in October 2018, highlighting the commitment to maintaining its structural integrity.

Lake Miola serves as a vital water supply source for the Miami County region, offering recreational opportunities and ecological benefits. With its strategic location and robust design, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the face of climate challenges. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, Lake Miola exemplifies the importance of sustainable infrastructure for ensuring water security in a changing environment.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

DORSEY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

215

Hydraulic Height

48

Drainage Area

5.73

Nid Storage

6095

Structural Height

54

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

54
       
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.