J-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

J-2 is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Bourbon, Kansas, along the Owl Creek river.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 35.4 feet and a length of 2263 feet, was completed in 2010 and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. Managed by the local government, this dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, ensuring its safety and effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

With a storage capacity of 3749 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2300 cubic feet per second, J-2 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as not assessed for condition. While the spillway type is uncontrolled, the structure has no outlet gates and is not associated with any locks. Despite being designated as moderate risk, J-2 is well-maintained and meets regulatory guidelines, contributing to the overall resilience of the area against flood-related emergencies.

Overall, J-2 stands as a reliable flood risk reduction infrastructure in Kansas, designed by AG Engineering Associates and overseen by the local government and state regulatory agencies. Its strategic location, sufficient storage capacity, and effective design make it a critical asset for managing floodwaters and safeguarding the community of Ft. Scott from potential inundation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we recognize the importance of such structures in building resilience against the increasing threat of floods and extreme weather events in the region.

Year Completed

2010

Dam Length

2263

Dam Height

35.4

River Or Stream

OWL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

32.3

Drainage Area

8.25

Nid Storage

3749

Structural Height

40.4

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.