Pierson Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pierson Park Dam, located in Kansas City, Kansas, is a vital water resource structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1968, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 36.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 42 feet, with a structural height of 45 feet. With a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet, the dam serves the local community by providing ample surface area for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Pierson Park Dam is inspected every three years to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with a moderate risk level. The spillway, with a width of 45 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of high discharge.

With its critical role in providing recreational opportunities and managing water resources in the area, Pierson Park Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both climate enthusiasts and local communities alike. Its continued monitoring and maintenance serve as a model for responsible dam management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

36.5

River Or Stream

BARBER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.7

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

0.85

Nid Storage

390

Structural Height

45

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds