Clinton Dam

WAKARUSA RIVER· Douglas, Kansas· Built 1977· Rockfill·

High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Clinton Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 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 Length	9,250 ft
Dam Type	Rockfill
Max Storage	368.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage	110.4K acre-ft

Surface Area	7,000 acres
Drainage Area	367 sq mi
Max Discharge	53,000 cfs
Year Completed	1977 (49 years old)
NID ID	KS00026

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: January 24, 2023

State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Kansas City District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Clinton Dam?

Clinton 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 Clinton Dam?

Clinton Dam is owned by USACE - Kansas City District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Clinton Dam built?

Clinton Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Clinton Dam?

Clinton Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Clinton Dam last inspected?

Clinton Dam was last inspected on January 24, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.