Fawn Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fawn Lake Dam, located in Wichita, Kansas, serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 33.9 acre-feet. The dam, primarily designed for recreation, spans 430 feet in length and is situated on the East Branch Chisholm-Tr river.

Despite its scenic appeal, Fawn Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection took place in October 2000, with a frequency of every 3 years. The dam has no outlet gates and is not regulated by the state, presenting potential safety concerns for the surrounding area. The lack of emergency action plans and risk management measures raises further alarms regarding the dam's readiness in case of a natural disaster.

For those interested in water resources and climate change, Fawn Lake Dam provides a case study in the importance of proper dam maintenance and emergency preparedness. With its significant storage capacity and high hazard potential, the dam serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing monitoring and risk assessment in the face of evolving environmental conditions. As enthusiasts continue to appreciate the recreational opportunities offered by the dam, attention must also be paid to ensuring its safety and resilience in the years to come.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

EAST BRANCH CHISHOLM-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

33.9

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.