Crystal Lake Dam

SOUTH FORK POTTAWATOMIE CREEK-TR· Anderson, Kansas· Built 1940· 30 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Crystal Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 30 ft (taller than 71.7% in KS)
Dam Length950 ft
Max Storage316 acre-ft
Year Completed1940 (86 years old)
NID IDKS03002

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: No
Last Inspection: July 21, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KS Dept. of Agriculture

Ownership

GARNETT, CITY OF AND KDWP

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal Lake 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 Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal Lake Dam is owned by GARNETT, CITY OF AND KDWP (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Crystal Lake Dam built?

Crystal Lake Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Crystal Lake Dam last inspected?

Crystal Lake Dam was last inspected on July 21, 2020. 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.