Melvern Waterfowl Marsh Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gs Dd No 123 Frd No 2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Melvern Waterfowl Marsh Dam #1 in Osage, Kansas, is a state-owned structure designed for Fish and Wildlife Pond purposes, providing a habitat for various waterfowl species.
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Summary
The dam, primarily made of earth with a buttress core type, stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches out for 380 feet, creating a surface area of 4.1 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 52.4 acre-feet. Situated along the Marais Des Cygnes River, the dam serves as a recreational spot for enthusiasts of water resources and climate, offering opportunities for wildlife observation and outdoor activities.
Managed by the Kansas Department of State, Melvern Waterfowl Marsh Dam #1 holds a low hazard potential with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." Although not currently regulated or inspected by state agencies, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment are unknown. With a designated spillway width of 43 feet and no outlet gates, the dam's primary function is to maintain a sustainable environment for fish and wildlife while also catering to recreational interests. While lacking detailed information on its construction and maintenance history, the dam remains a significant feature in the conservation and preservation efforts within the region.
As part of the Tulsa District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Melvern Waterfowl Marsh Dam #1 contributes to the ecological balance of the area by providing essential water resources for wildlife and recreational activities. The dam's strategic location along the Marais Des Cygnes River enhances the biodiversity of the region and offers a serene setting for nature enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Despite limited information on its operational aspects, the dam's role in supporting the local ecosystem underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change on aquatic habitats.
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
MARAIS DES CYGNES RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
52.4 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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