Melvern Dam

MARAIS DES CYGNES· Osage, Kansas· Built 1972· Earth·

High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Recreation Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Melvern Dam is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 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	9,750 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	363.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage	154.0K acre-ft

Surface Area	6,930 acres
Drainage Area	349 sq mi
Max Discharge	35,500 cfs
Year Completed	1972 (54 years old)
NID ID	KS00007

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: August 24, 2020

State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Kansas City District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Melvern Dam?

Melvern 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 Melvern Dam?

Melvern 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 Melvern Dam built?

Melvern Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Melvern Dam?

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

When was Melvern Dam last inspected?

Melvern Dam was last inspected on August 24, 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.