Big Hill Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Hill Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 83 ft (taller than 99.6% in KS) |
| Dam Length | 3,902 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 39.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 27.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,192 acres |
| Drainage Area | 37 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 36,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1981 (45 years old) |
| NID ID | KS00049 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Tulsa District
Federal Government
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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Hill Dam?
Big Hill Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Hill Dam?
Big Hill Dam is owned by USACE - Tulsa District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Hill Dam built?
Big Hill Dam was completed in 1981, making it 45 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Big Hill Dam?
Big Hill Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Hill Dam?
Big Hill Dam has a dam height of 83 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Big Hill Dam last inspected?
Big Hill Dam was last inspected on March 1, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.