Bayer Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bayer Pond Dam, located in Manhattan, Kansas, is a local government-owned structure regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.


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Summary

This earth dam, primarily used for recreation, stands at a height of 42 feet and has a storage capacity of 44.8 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2.1 acres and a drainage area of 0.09 square miles, the dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment.

Despite its high hazard potential, Bayer Pond Dam has not undergone any major modifications since its completion, and lacks outlet gates for controlled water release. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, making it susceptible to potential overflow during heavy rainfall events. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, there is a need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in case of dam failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Bayer Pond Dam should be aware of its location along the Kansas River and its susceptibility to flooding. The dam's high hazard potential and poor condition assessment highlight the importance of regular inspections and potential emergency action planning to mitigate risks associated with its structural integrity. Collaboration between local government agencies and the Kansas Department of Agriculture is crucial to ensure the safety of the community and surrounding areas in the event of a dam failure.

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

KANSAS RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.1

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

44.8

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.