Willow Lake
Key Takeaway
Willow Lake is classified as high hazard in Kansas. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 | 28 ft (taller than 62.6% in KS) |
| Dam Length | 850 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 137 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 49 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 320 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2019 |
| NID ID | KS01167 |
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
WILLOW LAKES HOMES ASSOCIATION LLC
Private
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High Hazard 57 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Willow Lake?
Willow Lake 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 Willow Lake?
Willow Lake is owned by WILLOW LAKES HOMES ASSOCIATION LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Willow Lake built?
Willow Lake was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Willow Lake?
Willow Lake serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Willow Lake?
Willow Lake has a dam height of 28 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 Willow Lake last inspected?
Willow Lake was last inspected on June 15, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.