Summary
17, a local government-owned dam located in Harvey County, Kansas, serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along Gypsum Creek. Constructed in 2006, this earth dam stands at a height of 39.8 feet and has a length of 1263 feet, providing a storage capacity of 6803 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 9.35 square miles, No. 17 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flooding in the region.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its integrity and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's current condition is assessed as fair, with a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 330 feet, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow. With a solid foundation and primary purpose of flood risk reduction, No. 17 stands as a key component in the local water resource management infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, No. 17 presents an intriguing case study in dam engineering and flood control. With its strategic location and design elements tailored for maximum efficiency, this dam exemplifies the intersection of human intervention and natural forces in water management. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water levels, structures like No. 17 play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the threats of flooding and water scarcity. Through ongoing monitoring and maintenance, No. 17 stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
1263 |
Dam Height |
39.8 |
River Or Stream |
GYPSUM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
47 |
Drainage Area |
9.35 |
Nid Storage |
6803 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
No. 17