Spears Dam, located in Johnson County, Kansas, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a height of 18.7 feet and a length of 460 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 57.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.8 acres. The dam is situated on Negro Creek-TR, within the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Spears Dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, ensuring its compliance with state safety standards. The last inspection in April 2018 determined that the dam met regulatory requirements, but it is important to note that a proper emergency action plan (EAP) has not been prepared thus far.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spears Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam safety management. As a privately owned structure with a recreational purpose, the dam's management and maintenance are crucial to ensuring public safety and environmental protection. With a focus on risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and regulatory compliance, Spears Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of effective dam management practices in safeguarding water resources and communities against potential hazards.