Summary
Completed in 1988, this dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 985 feet, with a storage capacity of 693 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.02 square miles. Despite being categorized as low hazard potential and not rated in condition assessment, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for flood control in the region.
With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Dd No 16 in Little River, Kansas, falls under the jurisdiction of the Kansas Department of Agriculture for regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 520 cubic feet per second. While the dam is not associated with any federal agencies for funding or oversight, it plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Dd No 16 not only for its functional purpose in flood risk reduction but also for its strategic location along the Little Arkansas River. Despite the lack of recent inspection data and a formal emergency action plan, this earth dam remains a key component of water management infrastructure in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Dd No 16 are essential for ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
985 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE ARKANSAS RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Drainage Area |
1.02 |
Nid Storage |
693 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smoky Hill R Nr Langley
|
68cfs |
Cow C Nr Lyons
|
14cfs |
Smoky Hill R At Ellsworth
|
26cfs |
Arkansas R Nr Nickerson
|
120cfs |
Smoky Hill R At Lindsborg
|
108cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Mentor
|
104cfs |
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 16
Kanopolis Lk Nr Kanopolis