15-27 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dd No 4-3 (Mapes) Dd No 17-16
Last Updated: February 24, 2026
Located in Horton, Kansas, the 15-27 dam was completed in 2003 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Delaware River.
Summary
Owned and regulated by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 900 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 500.61 acre-feet, the dam serves to control debris and reduce the risk of flooding in the area.
The 15-27 dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in February 2018. Despite its satisfactory condition, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, calling for appropriate risk management measures to be implemented. The dam does not feature outlet gates, and its spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 125 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2787 cubic feet per second.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location of the 15-27 dam, which plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. With its efficient design and satisfactory condition, this dam stands as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Brown County, Kansas, demonstrating the importance of proactive water management in the face of climate challenges.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
DELAWARE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18.17 |
Drainage Area |
1.56 |
Nid Storage |
500.61 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Delaware R Nr Muscotah
|
30cfs |
Big Nemaha River At Falls City
|
99cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
7cfs |
Missouri River At Rulo
|
23500cfs |
Stranger C Nr Potter
|
199cfs |
Soldier C Nr Delia
|
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.
15-27