Old Fish Farm Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Old Fish Farm, located in Douglas County, Kansas, is a privately owned recreational dam on Captain Creek.


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Summary

The Earth dam, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 550 feet, has a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities. Despite being non-regulated by the state, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been inspected since 2012.

With a moderate risk assessment rating and an uncontrolled spillway, Old Fish Farm presents a unique blend of risks and opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's location in the Tulsa District and its close proximity to Steven C. Watkins, Jr.'s congressional district further highlight its significance. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its historical significance and potential for further development make it an intriguing site for further exploration and study.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the risks and management measures associated with dams like Old Fish Farm becomes crucial. With a focus on recreation and a modest drainage area of 2.07 square miles, the dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human activity and natural ecosystems. Exploring the potential impact of climate change on the dam's operations and its surrounding environment can provide valuable insights for policymakers and researchers alike.

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

CAPTAIN CREEK - TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.8

Drainage Area

2.07

Nid Storage

128

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.