Red Bud Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Red Bud Lake, also known as Redbud Lake Dam, is a private water resource located in Dickinson County, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this concrete buttress dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The lake is situated along the Smoky Hill River-TR, offering a serene escape for visitors to enjoy boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.

Despite its low hazard potential and "Not Rated" condition assessment, Red Bud Lake serves as a vital water source for the local community. With a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, the lake provides a reliable supply of water for agricultural and environmental purposes. The surrounding area, including Sand Spring city, benefits from the reservoir's presence for irrigation and wildlife habitat maintenance.

Although lacking in certain regulatory certifications, such as state jurisdiction and permitting, Red Bud Lake continues to be a valuable asset for water conservation and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its scenic location and functional design, this private water resource underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SMOKY HILL RIVER-TR

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.