Zephyr Site Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dd No 18-B Dd No 22-A
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Zephyr Site, located in Rice County, Kansas, is a rockfill dam constructed on the Little Arkansas River.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 20.4 feet, this dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 52.5 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 21.7 acre-feet. With a surface area of 5.3 acres and a drainage area of 0.03 square miles, the Zephyr Site serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, the Zephyr Site has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam, completed in an unlisted year, has not undergone any modifications since its construction. With a spillway width of 20 feet and no associated locks, the Zephyr Site is a key infrastructure for water management in the region. Although last inspected in July 1998, the site is continuously monitored for any potential risks or safety concerns.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Zephyr Site presents a unique opportunity to study the impact of rockfill dams on water storage and management in the region. With its strategic location on the Little Arkansas River, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply. As efforts to address climate change intensify, understanding the role of such infrastructure in sustainable water management becomes increasingly important. The Zephyr Site stands as a testament to the importance of investing in resilient water infrastructure for the future.
Dam Length |
614 |
Dam Height |
20.4 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE ARKANSAS RIVER -TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
5.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.03 |
Nid Storage |
52.5 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smoky Hill R Nr Langley
|
68cfs |
Cow C Nr Lyons
|
14cfs |
Smoky Hill R At Ellsworth
|
26cfs |
Smoky Hill R At Lindsborg
|
108cfs |
Arkansas R Nr Nickerson
|
120cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Mentor
|
104cfs |
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.
Zephyr Site
Kanopolis Lk Nr Kanopolis