Morrison Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morrison Dam, located in Derby, Kansas, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1948 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 680 feet in length. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 76 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11.5 acres, serving the surrounding community as a popular spot for outdoor activities.

The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering visitors a tranquil setting along Spring Creek-TR for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition. Although there are no outlet gates or associated structures, Morrison Dam remains an important feature in the local landscape, providing both leisure opportunities and contributing to the ecological balance of the area.

With its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk level, Morrison Dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure public safety and environmental protection. While it has not been modified in recent years, regular assessments of its condition and risk management measures are essential to mitigate any potential hazards. As a valuable resource in Sedgwick County, Kansas, Morrison Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate and protect this natural treasure.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.5

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.68

Nid Storage

76

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.