Lake Parsons Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Parsons Dam, located in Parsons, Kansas, is a vital water resource infrastructure primarily serving the purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Built in 1959, the dam stands at a height of 52 feet and has a storage capacity of 38,000 acre-feet. Situated on Labette Creek, the dam also contributes to flood risk reduction and recreation opportunities in the area.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam poses moderate risks that are actively managed to protect the surrounding community. Despite its age, Lake Parsons Dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and environmental conservation efforts in Neosho County.

As a significant piece of water infrastructure in Kansas, Lake Parsons Dam not only provides essential water supply but also offers recreational opportunities and contributes to flood risk reduction. With its earth dam structure and uncontrolled spillway, the dam has been serving the community for over six decades. Managed and regulated by the state, the dam's risk management measures and frequent inspections ensure the safety of the surrounding area while maintaining its operational efficiency.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

5650

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

LABETTE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

980

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

37.11

Nid Storage

38000

Structural Height

52

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

52
       
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.