Gigstad Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dd No E-5 Dd No B-37 (Teaford)
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gigstad Dam, located in Valley Falls, Kansas, is a private dam constructed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 17.1 feet and spans 800 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 69.8 acre-feet. Although the dam was last inspected in August 1995 and deemed to have a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated."
Situated on Walnut Creek-TR in Jefferson County, Kansas, Gigstad Dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region. With a surface area of 5.1 acres and a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing emergency water supply to the surrounding area. Despite not being state regulated or inspected, the dam remains a key feature in the local water infrastructure.
Gigstad Dam's strategic location and design make it a valuable asset for fire protection and wildlife conservation in the region. Its low hazard potential and sturdy construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service ensure its reliability in safeguarding the local ecosystem and water resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, Gigstad Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating environmental risks.
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
17.1 |
River Or Stream |
WALNUT CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
69.8 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Delaware R Nr Muscotah
|
52cfs |
Stranger C Nr Potter
|
199cfs |
Delaware R Bl Perry Dam
|
107cfs |
Kansas R At Lecompton
|
1930cfs |
Kansas R At Topeka
|
1770cfs |
Soldier C Nr Topeka
|
4cfs |
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.
Gigstad Dam