It is the intent of the legislature by this act to provide for the exclusive regulation of construction, operation and maintenance of all dams or other water obstructions by the state to the extent required for the protection of public safety. All dams or other water obstructions are declared to be under the jurisdiction of the division of water resources of the Kansas department of agriculture and the chief engineer thereof. The chief engineer or his or her authorized representative shall supervise the construction, modification, operation and maintenance of dams or other water obstructions for the protection of life and property.
K.S.A. 82a-301a