Bengtson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bengtson Dam, located in KIPP, Kansas, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1958.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 23.2 feet and serves the primary purpose of water resource management along the WEST BRANCH-GYPSUM CREEK-TR. With a storage capacity of 187.8 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, Bengtson Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and mitigating potential flooding in the area.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 100 feet, ensures the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow. Despite being privately owned, Bengtson Dam is not regulated or inspected by state agencies, reflecting its low risk assessment. The surrounding area benefits from the dam's ability to store 35.3 acre-feet of water for normal use, highlighting its importance in maintaining water resources and supporting local ecosystems.

Although not rated for condition assessment, Bengtson Dam continues to serve as a vital infrastructure for water management in Saline County, Kansas. Its moderate risk assessment (3) signifies the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the local community and environment against potential water-related hazards.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Height

23.2

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH-GYPSUM CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.85

Nid Storage

187.8

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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.