Lake Stellamaris Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Lake Stellamaris, located in Leavenworth, Kansas, is a privately owned reservoir regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 49.2 feet, with a hydraulic height of 54 feet and a structural height of 57 feet. With a storage capacity of 1620 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.46 square miles, Lake Stellamaris serves as a vital water resource in the region.

This significant dam on Salt Creek has a spillway width of 165 feet and a surface area of 48.4 acres. Despite being rated as having a moderate risk level, the condition of Lake Stellamaris is currently not rated, with its last inspection conducted in December 2017. With a hazard potential deemed significant, it is crucial for the dam to undergo regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of its water resources.

Lake Stellamaris plays a crucial role in water management in Leavenworth, serving as a source of irrigation and recreational activities for the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Lake Stellamaris are essential in ensuring sustainable water management practices and mitigating potential risks associated with extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

49.2

River Or Stream

SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

48.4

Hydraulic Height

54

Drainage Area

2.46

Nid Storage

1620

Structural Height

57

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

57
       
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.