Dam No 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dam No 4, also known as Sugar Valley Dam No 4, is a private-owned structure located in Linn, Kansas, along the Mine Creek-TR river system.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 32.1 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.26 square miles, Dam No 4 provides a vital source of water for the surrounding area.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Dam No 4 has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain safety features such as outlet gates. The dam's spillway, with a width of 46 feet, is uncontrolled, posing some risks during periods of high discharge. The structure is under the jurisdiction of the Kansas Department of Agriculture and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. For those interested in water resources and climate management, Dam No 4 offers a fascinating opportunity to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the heart of Kansas.

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

32.1

River Or Stream

MINE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

32.1

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.