Whispering Hills Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Whispering Hills Lake Dam, located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1930 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans 800 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 190 acre-feet. The reservoir created by the dam covers a surface area of 21 acres and has a drainage area of 290 square miles, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Despite its age, Whispering Hills Lake Dam has been regularly inspected and maintained, with the last inspection conducted in May 2017 and deemed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential, but its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level of preparedness for potential emergencies. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet, allowing for the safe release of excess water.

With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, Whispering Hills Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource for the community while also posing a potential risk that is actively managed and monitored by the responsible regulatory agencies. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the balance between enjoyment and safety that this dam exemplifies in its role as a valuable part of the local landscape.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR ROUND GROVE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Drainage Area

290

Nid Storage

190

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

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.