Columbian Acres Dam No 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Columbian Acres Dam No 1, located in Derby, Kansas, is a private-owned structure designed by USDA NRCS for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, stretching 500 feet in length. Despite its low hazard potential and not being currently regulated or inspected by the state, the dam has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and is situated on Spring Creek-TR, covering a drainage area of 0.93 square miles.

Even though Columbian Acres Dam No 1 is not state-regulated, it serves as an important recreational site in Sedgwick County, Kansas, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts for various outdoor activities. With a spillway width of 50 feet and a hazard potential deemed low, this dam provides a safe environment for visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and engage in water-based recreational activities. Although its condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam continues to offer a serene escape for those seeking outdoor adventures in the heart of Kansas.

As part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service's portfolio, Columbian Acres Dam No 1 has been an integral part of the local landscape for nearly seven decades. Even though it may not receive regular state inspections or regulatory oversight, the dam remains a landmark in the community, offering a glimpse into the region's water resource management history. With its historical significance and recreational value, Columbian Acres Dam No 1 continues to be a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate-conscious individuals looking to connect with nature in a unique setting.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.93

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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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.