Rock Creek Dam

ROCK CREEK· Bourbon, Kansas· Built 1920· Earth· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Rock Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 5.9% in KS)
Dam Length225 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage581 acre-ft
Normal Storage410 acre-ft
Surface Area69 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDKS03013

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 1, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KS Dept. of Agriculture

Ownership

FORT SCOTT, CITY OF

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rock Creek Dam?

Rock Creek Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Rock Creek Dam?

Rock Creek Dam is owned by FORT SCOTT, CITY OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rock Creek Dam built?

Rock Creek Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Rock Creek Dam?

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

How tall is Rock Creek Dam?

Rock Creek Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Rock Creek Dam last inspected?

Rock Creek Dam was last inspected on May 1, 2017. 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.