New Wellington Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

New Wellington Lake, located in Sumner County, Kansas, is a vital water resource managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.


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Summary

Built in 1996 by Wilson and Company, this earth dam stands at 39 feet high and spans 3700 feet, serving as a crucial flood risk reduction and water supply structure for the area. With a maximum storage capacity of 15,986 acre-feet and a normal storage of 5,907 acre-feet, the lake covers a surface area of 675 acres and drains an area of 17.8 square miles.

The dam, situated on East Prairie Creek, has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition with a regular inspection frequency of 5 years. With no outlet gates, the structure relies on its spillway width of 300 feet to manage excess water flow. Despite its modest size, New Wellington Lake plays a crucial role in water supply management for the region, showcasing the importance of proper regulation and maintenance of such infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns. enthusiasts and environmentalists alike can appreciate the strategic design and function of this essential water resource in Kansas.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

3700

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

EAST PRAIRIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

675

Drainage Area

17.8

Nid Storage

15986

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.