Gardner Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Gardner Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 58 ft (taller than 98.7% in KS) |
| Dam Length | 1,550 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 3.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 130 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13,150 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | KS02488 |
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
GARDNER, CITY OF
Local Government
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Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner 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 Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner Lake Dam is owned by GARDNER, CITY OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gardner Lake Dam built?
Gardner 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 Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Gardner Lake Dam?
Gardner Lake Dam has a dam height of 58 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 Gardner Lake Dam last inspected?
Gardner Lake Dam was last inspected on December 9, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.