Dd No. 143 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dd No.


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Summary

143 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Cowley, Kansas, designed for flood risk reduction on the Walnut River. Completed in 1998, this structure stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 1000 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 220.9 acre-feet. With a normal storage volume of 29.9 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.5 acres, Dd No. 143 plays a crucial role in managing floodwaters and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Dd No. 143 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being inspected recently or having a condition assessment, this dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway measuring 40 feet in width. While it does not have outlet gates, associated structures, or emergency action plans in place, the structure is deemed to meet regulatory guidelines for state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Overall, Dd No. 143 serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and debris management in the region.

Located within the Kansas City District, this dam on the Walnut River is a key component in the region's water resource infrastructure. With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, Dd No. 143 plays a critical role in protecting the local community from potential flooding events. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, structures like Dd No. 143 become increasingly important in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the threats of extreme weather and rising water levels.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

WALNUT RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.5

Drainage Area

0.63

Nid Storage

220.9

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.