Webster

SOUTH FORK SOLOMON RIVER· Rooks, Kansas· Built 1955· Earth· 154 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Irrigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Webster is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 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 Height 154 ft (taller than 100% in KS)
Dam Length10,720 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage401.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage77.4K acre-ft
Surface Area11,493 acres
Drainage Area1,150 sq mi
Max Discharge138,000 cfs
Year Completed1955 (71 years old)
NID IDKS00025

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 12, 2020
State Regulated: No

Ownership

RECLAMATION

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Webster?

Webster 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 Webster?

Webster is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Webster built?

Webster was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Webster?

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

How tall is Webster?

Webster has a dam height of 154 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 Webster last inspected?

Webster was last inspected on August 12, 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.