Forsberg Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bengtson Dam Pond No. 2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Saline, Kansas, the Forsberg Dam is a private structure built in 1956 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, this earth dam on the Smoky Hill River provides a maximum storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 1.82 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, the dam covers a surface area of 0.94 acres and has a drainage area of 0.76 acres.
Managed by private owners, the Forsberg Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and lacks a designated emergency action plan. Although the dam has a spillway width of 75 feet and a maximum discharge capability of 880 cubic feet per second, it does not have any outlet gates or associated structures. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been inspected recently and its risk management measures remain unspecified. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find the Forsberg Dam an intriguing structure due to its historical significance and unique design features.
With its location in the heart of Kansas and its association with the Smoky Hill River, the Forsberg Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. While it has not been subjected to state regulations or enforcement, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in the area. The dam's earth construction and buttress core design reflect the engineering expertise of the USDA NRCS, making it a noteworthy site for enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
578 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
SMOKY HILL RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.94 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
0.76 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smoky Hill R Nr Mentor
|
106cfs |
Gypsum C Nr Gypsum
|
17cfs |
Mulberry C Nr Salina
|
17cfs |
Smoky Hill R At Lindsborg
|
112cfs |
Solomon R At Niles
|
227cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Langley
|
69cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Forsberg Dam