Lake Afton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Afton Dam, located in Sedgwick County, Kansas, is a local government-owned structure designed by USA WPA and completed in 1942.


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Summary

This earth dam, primarily constructed for recreation purposes, stands at a height of 47 feet with a hydraulic height of 41 feet and a structural height of 55 feet. The dam spans a length of 4037 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 6146 acre-feet.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a moderate risk assessment, Lake Afton Dam has a satisfactory condition assessment, indicating its overall structural integrity. The dam is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and undergoes regular inspections, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. In the event of an emergency, there are currently no emergency action plans prepared, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management measures for this critical infrastructure.

As a significant feature on Clearwater Creek, Lake Afton Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region. Its location in the city of Oxford makes it a popular destination for recreational activities, offering a surface area of 238 acres for visitors to enjoy. With its historical significance and vital functions, Lake Afton Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

4037

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

CLEARWATER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

238

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

10.28

Nid Storage

6146

Structural Height

55

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

55
       
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.