Kanopolis Dam

SMOKY HILL RIVER· Ellsworth, Kansas· Built 1948· Earth·

High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Kanopolis Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 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	15,360 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	433.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage	61.4K acre-ft

Surface Area	3,815 acres
Drainage Area	7,860 sq mi
Max Discharge	171,000 cfs
Year Completed	1948 (78 years old)
NID ID	KS00005

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: October 6, 2020

State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Kansas City District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

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Dam KS03613

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Dam KS00644

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Dam KS03618

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Dam KS00653

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Dam KS03619

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Dam KS00642

Ellsworth, KS

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Kanopolis Dam?

Kanopolis 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 Kanopolis Dam?

Kanopolis 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 Kanopolis Dam built?

Kanopolis Dam was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Kanopolis Dam?

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

When was Kanopolis Dam last inspected?

Kanopolis Dam was last inspected on October 6, 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.