Milford Lk Nr Junction City Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Milford Lake is the largest man-made lake in Kansas and located near Junction City.


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Summary

The lake was created in the 1960s as a reservoir for irrigation, flood control, and recreation. It is fed by the Republican River and other tributaries, which create a diverse hydrological system that supports a variety of fish species, including walleye and catfish. The lake also receives water from snowpack providers such as the Smoky Hill River and the Saline River. The lake is used for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. Additionally, the surrounding agricultural land uses the lake water for irrigation, making it an important resource for the local economy. Overall, Milford Lake is a valuable asset to the state of Kansas and the surrounding communities.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change -0.01%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 1,137.61 ft
2013-04-06
Maximum 1,174.72 ft
2019-06-26
Average 1,145 ft
Hydraulic_Height 147
Drainage_Area 24882
Year_Completed 1967
Nid_Storage 1145000
Structural_Height 126
River_Or_Stream REPUBLICAN RIVER
Foundations Soil
Surface_Area 15708
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Uncontrolled - 0
Dam_Length 6300
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Nid_Height 147
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

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.