Timber Hills Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dd No Iii-1 Iii-3
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Timber Hills Lake in Bourbon, Kansas, is a privately owned recreational lake nestled along the Little Osage River.
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Summary
Built in 2006 by designers Loren E. Drews and John George, this Earth-type dam stands at 35 feet high and boasts a storage capacity of 852.5 acre-feet. With a surface area of 39 acres and a drainage area of 1.46 square miles, Timber Hills Lake provides ample space for fishing, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.
Despite its fair condition assessment, Timber Hills Lake poses a significant hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the lake is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates. The surrounding area is under the jurisdiction of the state and is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Timber Hills Lake offers a unique blend of recreational opportunities and environmental stewardship in a picturesque setting in southeastern Kansas.
For those interested in water resource management and climate conservation, Timber Hills Lake represents a harmonious balance between human recreation and natural preservation. With its strategic location along the Little Osage River and proximity to the Tulsa District, the lake serves as a vital ecosystem for fish and wildlife while also providing a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam at Timber Hills Lake remains a testament to responsible design and construction, ensuring that the surrounding community is prepared for any emergency situations. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor passing through Bourbon County, Timber Hills Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about water resources and climate sustainability.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
1070 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE OSAGE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
39 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.3 |
Drainage Area |
1.46 |
Nid Storage |
852.5 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
L Osage R At Fulton
|
1cfs |
Marmaton R Nr Marmaton
|
194cfs |
Marmaton R Nr Uniontown
|
0cfs |
Marmaton R Nr Fort Scott
|
4cfs |
Marais Des Cygnes R Nr Ks-Mo St Line
|
223cfs |
Marais Des Cygnes R At La Cygne
|
196cfs |
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.
Timber Hills Lake