Hawkins Dam

LITTLE BEAVER CREEK-TR· Rawlins, Kansas· Built 1967· Earth· 38 ft tall

High Hazard Other State Government

Key Takeaway

Hawkins Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is other. 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	38 ft (taller than 90.5% in KS)
Dam Length	620 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	141 acre-ft
Normal Storage	24 acre-ft

Surface Area	3 acres
Drainage Area	1 sq mi
Year Completed	1967 (59 years old)
NID ID	KS01773

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: April 18, 2023

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: KS Dept. of Agriculture

Ownership

KANSAS DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION

State Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hawkins Dam?

Hawkins 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 Hawkins Dam?

Hawkins Dam is owned by KANSAS DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hawkins Dam built?

Hawkins Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Hawkins Dam?

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

How tall is Hawkins Dam?

Hawkins Dam has a dam height of 38 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 Hawkins Dam last inspected?

Hawkins Dam was last inspected on April 18, 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.