Lower West Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower West Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1904 and is 122 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 | 14 ft (taller than 3.7% in KS) |
| Dam Length | 1,650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 210 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 56 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1904 (122 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2006 |
| NID ID | KS09160 |
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
PLEASANTON, CITY OF
Local Government
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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower West Lake Dam?
Lower West 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 Lower West Lake Dam?
Lower West Lake Dam is owned by PLEASANTON, CITY OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower West Lake Dam built?
Lower West Lake Dam was completed in 1904, making it 122 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 Lower West Lake Dam?
Lower West Lake 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 Lower West Lake Dam?
Lower West Lake Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Lower West Lake Dam last inspected?
Lower West Lake Dam was last inspected on April 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.