Clark Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Clark Dam, located in Topeka, Kansas, along the Little Soldier Creek, is a private-owned structure designed by King Engineering for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 26 feet and spanning 550 feet in length, this earth dam has a storage capacity of 182 acre-feet and a normal storage of 22 acre-feet. With a surface area of 5.3 acres and a drainage area of 1.08 square miles, the dam serves a vital purpose in mitigating the risk of flooding in the region.
Although the dam's hazard potential is classified as low and its condition remains unrated, it has not undergone any recent inspections since June 1996. Despite the lack of state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Clark Dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood protection in the area. With no associated structures or lock systems, the dam primarily relies on natural spillways and a spillway width of 140 feet to manage potential excess water flow.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the impact of dams on local ecosystems and communities, Clark Dam stands as a notable structure in the Kansas City District. While its risk assessment and emergency action plan details remain unclear, the dam's strategic location and design play a pivotal role in safeguarding the region from potential flood events.
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SOLDIER CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.3 |
Drainage Area |
1.08 |
Nid Storage |
182 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Soldier C Nr Delia
|
2cfs |
Soldier C Nr Topeka
|
1cfs |
Kansas R At Topeka
|
1530cfs |
Kansas R Nr Belvue
|
1420cfs |
Delaware R Bl Perry Dam
|
114cfs |
Delaware R Nr Muscotah
|
51cfs |
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.
Clark Dam