HorseThief Reservoir

Statement

We marked the official start of summer this week and coincidentally, this weekend the HorseThief Reservoir will be open for business. Just outside of Jetmore in Hodgeman County and 20 miles from Dodge City, this new reservoir will be open for swimming and recreation. Also of importance, this reservoir will benefit the region by providing flood control and irrigation, in addition to the recreational opportunities for Kansans. Upon completion, HorseThief Reservoir will consist of a 444-acre lake and a 1,100-acre park with the dam itself more than 7,200 feet long and about 86 feet high.

This has been a long process as I was approached by Southwest Kansas leaders years ago about this important project. I commend the local Finney, Ford, Gray and Hodgeman county officials who have been committed to see the project through. Back in 2005, I secured funds for reconstruction and relocation of interchanges on US 156 near RS 255 and the HorseThief Canyon Reservoir entrance. Then, In August 2008, I stopped at HorseThief to review firsthand the construction progress and am now proud to see that two years later, this project has become a reality.

While the open house is this weekend for HorseThief, there are still projects to be completed on the reservoir and we hope for an official dedication later this summer when the rest of the amenities are open to the public. I hope all Kansans take advantage of the beach, water, picnic and camping areas for many years to come. Thanks to all the local leaders for their commitment to this Southwest Kansas project.

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