Hidden Valley Lakes Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hidden Valley Lakes, located in Bourbon, Kansas, is a private dam known for its recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by Jonas Engineering Co, this earth dam stands at a height of 63 feet, with a storage capacity of 2698 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Bell Branch river and covers an area of 95.3 acres, providing a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Hidden Valley Lakes is regulated, permitted, and inspected to ensure the safety of its surrounding community. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam continues to provide essential water storage and flood control services for Mapleton and its residents. Although its emergency action plan status and risk assessment are currently not available, the dam's design and construction meet the necessary guidelines to mitigate any potential risks in the future.

Overall, Hidden Valley Lakes is a picturesque destination for those interested in water resource management and climate preservation. With its tranquil setting and well-maintained infrastructure, this private dam serves not only as a recreational spot but also as a vital component in the sustainable development of Bourbon County, Kansas.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

63

River Or Stream

BELL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

95.3

Hydraulic Height

61

Drainage Area

3.67

Nid Storage

2698

Structural Height

63

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

63
       
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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.