Lake Afton Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Afton Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 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 | 47 ft (taller than 96.6% in KS) |
| Dam Length | 4,037 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 238 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 36,057 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1942 (84 years old) |
| NID ID | KS02553 |
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
SEDGWICK COUNTY
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Lake Afton Dam?
Lake Afton 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 Lake Afton Dam?
Lake Afton Dam is owned by SEDGWICK COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Afton Dam built?
Lake Afton Dam was completed in 1942, making it 84 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 Lake Afton Dam?
Lake Afton 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 Lake Afton Dam?
Lake Afton Dam has a dam height of 47 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 Lake Afton Dam last inspected?
Lake Afton Dam was last inspected on September 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.