Topeka ? The House sent the Senate a bill Tuesday to establish the Horse Thief Reservoir benefit district for what could become the largest lake in southwest Kansas.

Approved 99-26, the measure creates a governing structure for construction of lake west of Jetmore along Horse Thief Canyon, about 30 miles north of Dodge City. The water would come from damming a creek in the canyon.

Supporters said the project will control flooding and provide recreational opportunities in the area.

The bill would set up an eight-member board to oversee construction and operation of Horse Thief Reservoir. Members would represent Finney, Ford, Gray and Hodgeman counties; Dodge City and Garden City; the Pawnee Watershed District; and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

The project would include a 450-acre reservoir and a 1,100-acre recreation area. Nine counties were originally approached about the project.