Dd No 5-17 (Pember Dam) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dd No 5-11 (Neill) Dd No 5-3a
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Dd No 5-17, also known as Pember Dam, is a local government-owned structure in Ness County, Kansas, designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1973.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction along the Guzzlers Gulch-TR river or stream. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 3700 feet, this earth-core dam has a storage capacity of 1810 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 24.83 acres.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Dd No 5-17 has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam is state-regulated and inspected by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, meeting all state permitting and enforcement requirements. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 400 feet, and there are no outlet gates associated with the dam. The last inspection was conducted in June 2016, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated".
Water resource and climate enthusiasts would be intrigued by the significant role Dd No 5-17 plays in managing flood risks in the region. The dam's location in Burdett, Kansas, highlights its importance in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Its design by USDA NRCS and state regulation ensure that the dam meets all necessary safety standards, providing peace of mind to the local community. As a key infrastructure for water management, Dd No 5-17 represents a vital component in the resilience of the region against natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
3700 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
GUZZLERS GULCH-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24.83 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
12.16 |
Nid Storage |
1810 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pawnee R Nr Burdett
|
0cfs |
Walnut C At Nekoma
|
5cfs |
Pawnee R At Rozel
|
4cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Arnold
|
1cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Schoenchen
|
2cfs |
Smoky Hill R Bl Schoenchen
|
1cfs |
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.
Dd No 5-17 (Pember Dam)