Big Basin-Storage Ponds 3 &4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Basin-Storage Ponds 3 & 4 are two earth dams located in McPherson, Kansas, completed in 2007 with a primary purpose that is unspecified.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
These dams are owned by the state and have a maximum storage capacity of 128.6 acre-feet. The dams have a low hazard potential and are classified as very high risk due to their location in the Blaze Fork-TR river or stream.
The dams have a controlled spillway type and a structural height of 8 feet, with a total length of 6519 feet. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dams do not have a state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, or enforcement. These structures play a crucial role in water resource management in the area and contribute to the overall climate resilience of the region. With their strategic location and design, Big Basin-Storage Ponds 3 & 4 are significant assets in the state's water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
2007 |
Dam Length |
6519 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
BLAZE FORK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
128.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smoky Hill R At Lindsborg
|
108cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Langley
|
68cfs |
L Arkansas R At Alta Mills
|
31cfs |
Cow C Nr Lyons
|
14cfs |
Smoky Hill R Nr Mentor
|
104cfs |
Arkansas R Nr Nickerson
|
120cfs |
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.
Big Basin-Storage Ponds 3 &4