Ronald Burton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ronald Burton is a private earth dam located in Beattie, Kansas, along Vermillion Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1983 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing water for stock or small fish ponds. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 395 feet, Ronald Burton has a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.14 square miles. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, Ronald Burton is designed to provide essential water resources for the local community while also serving as a protective measure against potential flooding. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available", indicating a need for further inspection and maintenance. As an enthusiast of water resource management and climate resilience, Ronald Burton presents an intriguing case study in private dam infrastructure that plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and mitigating potential risks in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ronald Burton offers a fascinating example of how private dams can contribute to water management and environmental protection efforts. Located in Marshall County, Kansas, this earth dam is a product of collaboration between the USDA NRCS and local stakeholders. By understanding the design, purpose, and risk assessment of Ronald Burton, enthusiasts can gain insights into the importance of sustainable water infrastructure and the challenges of maintaining and monitoring such critical assets in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

395

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Vermillion Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

42

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.