Detention Dam Sp-8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Detention Dam Sp-8, located in Butler, Kansas, serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure along Bird Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Designed by SCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 16.2 feet, with a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, it plays a crucial role in managing stormwater and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

The dam, completed at an unknown date, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet. With a drainage area of 0.41 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 491 cubic feet per second, it effectively regulates water flow during heavy rainfall. Although it has not been inspected since July 1995, the structure's moderate risk assessment rating suggests that it is in satisfactory condition and continues to fulfill its flood risk reduction purpose.

Owned by the local government, Detention Dam Sp-8 exemplifies the collaborative efforts between state agencies and designers to safeguard communities from water-related disasters. Its strategic location and design further highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events in the region.

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

16.2

River Or Stream

BIRD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.41

Nid Storage

152

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.