Hillsdale Dam

BIG BULL CREEK· Miami, Kansas· Built 1981· Earth·

Key Takeaway

Hillsdale 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 Length11,640 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage160.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage76.0K acre-ft
Surface Area4,580 acres
Drainage Area144 sq mi
Max Discharge4,750 cfs
Year Completed1981 (45 years old)
NID IDKS82201

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: September 21, 2020
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Kansas City District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hillsdale Dam?

Hillsdale 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 Hillsdale Dam?

Hillsdale 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 Hillsdale Dam built?

Hillsdale 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 Hillsdale Dam?

Hillsdale Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, 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 Hillsdale Dam last inspected?

Hillsdale Dam was last inspected on September 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.