Dam repair project at Kanopolis outlet extended into July, keeping campground closed
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is adding downstream riprap to improve erosion protection
KANOPOLIS, KAN. — Fourth of July campers hoping to stay at the Army Corps of Engineers campground near Kanopolis Lake will need to make other plans as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers extends a major repair project at Kanopolis Dam into July.
The project extension allows crews to add an extra layer of downstream riprap to improve erosion protection at the dam's outlet structure. The broader repair initiative addresses damages and geological issues identified during a 2020 Corps of Engineers inspection, including channel erosion problems that date to the dam's completion in 1948.
Despite the ongoing construction, the dam's gates have been operational since late March, allowing the lake — described by the Corps as the first reservoir built by the Kansas City District of the Corps of Engineers — to begin its seasonal fill and return to normal operations. The Corps is offering to help visitors with existing campsite reservations move to other available parks.
"The additional riprap is a crucial enhancement that will bolster the long-term integrity and safety of the dam's outlet structure," said Ryan Williams, park manager at the lake. "We understand the campground closure is an inconvenience, especially over a holiday weekend, and we are committed to working with affected campers to find alternative arrangements. The good news is this phase of construction doesn't affect lake levels, which is great for everyone who enjoys the lake."
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