215 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Nemaha, Kansas, the dam known as 215 serves as a crucial element in flood risk reduction along the North Fork Vermillion River.


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Summary

Constructed in 2009, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 24 feet, offering a normal storage capacity of 39 acre-feet. Additionally, the dam boasts a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 714 cubic feet per second, making it a key asset in managing water flow in the region.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 215 is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating. Designed by Cohorst Engineering & Surveying, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, demonstrating the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its strategic location and design features, 215 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government agencies in safeguarding communities against natural disasters.

Overall, 215 stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken to mitigate flood risks in Nemaha, Kansas. With its solid construction and efficient design, this earth dam not only provides flood protection but also contributes to the sustainable management of water resources in the region. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water infrastructure, structures like 215 play a crucial role in ensuring the resilience and safety of communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

2009

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK VERMILLION RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.47

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.