Dd No 126 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dd No 126, located in Lyon County, Kansas, is a local government-owned Earth dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction on Elm Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Designed by USDA - SCS and USDA NRCS, this dam stands at 27.5 feet high and spans 580 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 85 feet and a hazard potential rated as low, Dd No 126 serves as a vital infrastructure for managing water resources in the region.

Despite its modest size, Dd No 126 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. The dam's design, with a buttress core type and uncontrolled spillway, reflects a balance between structural integrity and hydraulic efficiency. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a lack of recent condition assessment data, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the continued effectiveness of this important flood control structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of Dd No 126 in the broader context of water management in Kansas. Understanding the design, purpose, and condition of this dam provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with infrastructure resilience in the face of changing climate patterns. By staying informed and engaged with local water management efforts, we can contribute to sustainable solutions that protect communities and ecosystems for generations to come.

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

27.5

River Or Stream

ELM CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Drainage Area

0.46

Nid Storage

167

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.