Jack Mott Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Jack Mott Dam, also known as Lower Mott Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Medicine Lodge, Kansas.
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Summary
Built in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 29 feet. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet and a normal storage of 210 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 650 feet along Elm Creek-TR, serving as a crucial resource for the local community.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Jack Mott Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and proper functioning. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam has not been fully evaluated in recent years. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unspecified, raising questions about its readiness for potential emergencies or disasters. With its proximity to the Kansas City District and support from Congressman Ron Estes, Jack Mott Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Jack Mott Dam to be a fascinating structure, providing essential services for fire protection, stock, and recreation in Barber County, Kansas. This earth dam, with a buttress core type, has been a part of the local landscape for over four decades, offering a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet to support the community's needs. As discussions around water management and infrastructure continue, the condition and future maintenance of Jack Mott Dam will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of its operations for years to come.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
ELM CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
1.14 |
Nid Storage |
390 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Medicine Lodge R Nr Kiowa
|
110cfs |
Sf Ninnescah R Nr Pratt
|
8cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River Nr Alva
|
94cfs |
Rattlesnake C Nr Macksville
|
1cfs |
Sf Ninnescah R Nr Murdock
|
159cfs |
Nf Ninnescah R Ab Cheney Re
|
81cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Jack Mott Dam