Norton Dam (Sundowner West Dam) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Norton Dam, also known as Sundowner West Dam, is a private earth dam located in Saline, Kansas, along the Mulberry Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this recreational dam stands at a height of 17.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 32.6 acre-feet. With a surface area of 9.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.49 square miles, Norton Dam offers a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Managed by a private owner in Hedville, Kansas, Norton Dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition assessment. Despite lacking a spillway, outlet gates, or associated structures, this dam remains a popular spot for recreation enthusiasts in the area. While the last inspection took place in 2008, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities for visitors, showcasing the importance of water resource management in enhancing community resilience and environmental sustainability.
Located in the Kansas City District, Norton Dam boasts a unique design with buttress core types and unknown foundations, highlighting the diversity of dam structures in the region. With its rich history dating back to the 1970s, this dam serves as a reminder of the crucial role that water resources play in fostering community engagement and promoting climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore Norton Dam and its surroundings, they are invited to appreciate the beauty of nature while learning about the vital importance of sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
825 |
Dam Height |
17.8 |
River Or Stream |
MULBERRY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.49 |
Nid Storage |
182 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mulberry C Nr Salina
|
16cfs |
Saline R At Tescott
|
47cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Mentor
|
104cfs |
Solomon R Nr Minneapolis
|
49cfs |
Solomon R At Niles
|
205cfs |
Salt C Nr Ada
|
88cfs |
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.
Norton Dam (Sundowner West Dam)