Lake Mckinney Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Lake McKinney Dam, located in Deerfield, Kansas, is a privately-owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1890, stands at a height of 37 feet and has a hydraulic height of 27 feet, serving as a key barrier for the Arkansas River-TR offstream. With a storage capacity of 15,451 acre-feet and a drainage area of 201.73 square miles, the dam ensures water availability for various purposes in the region.

Despite its age, Lake McKinney Dam remains in fair condition, with a high hazard potential due to its location and the volume of water it holds. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, ensuring its continued safety and functionality. While it lacks specific purposes listed, the dam's presence is essential for flood control, irrigation, and recreational activities in the area.

Overall, Lake McKinney Dam stands as a historic structure that continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in Kearny County, Kansas. Its moderate risk assessment and fair condition underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding communities and environment.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

6000

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS RIVER-TR OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

201.73

Nid Storage

15451

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.