Garabay Bros Rec Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Garabay Bros Rec Dam, located in Kingman, Kansas, was completed in 1975 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at 22 feet in height, boasts a maximum storage capacity of 635 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 47.7 acres. The dam is regulated by the Kansas Dept. of Agriculture and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

Situated on the South Fork Ninnescah River, Garabay Bros Rec Dam not only serves as a protective measure against floods but also offers recreational opportunities to the community. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam provides vital flood protection while also contributing to the area's water resource management. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 200 feet, allows for safe discharge of excess water during periods of high flow.

Despite being privately owned, Garabay Bros Rec Dam plays a crucial role in the region's water management and flood control efforts. Its strategic location, coupled with its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, underscores its importance in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a dedicated state regulatory agency overseeing its operations and maintenance, this dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK NINNESCAH RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

47.7

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

7.13

Nid Storage

635

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.