Frd No 37 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 2, 2026
Frd No 37, also known as Elk River WS Dam 37, is a vital structure located in Elk Falls, Kansas, designed by the USDA NRCS to serve the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and has a hydraulic height of 44 feet, with a length of 930 feet. It has a NID storage capacity of 669.74 acre-feet and a normal storage of 91 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 13.37 acres and draining an area of 2.17 square miles along the Elk River-TR.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 37 is state-regulated and inspected to ensure its structural integrity and functionality in flood control measures. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this dam is a crucial component in the region's water resource management. Although its condition assessment is not rated, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water infrastructure for the community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 37 offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety. As part of the flood risk reduction system in Elk Falls, this dam plays a key role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation during periods of high water flow. Its controlled spillway, uncontrolled type, with a width of 40 feet, further enhances its capacity to manage excess water and minimize the risk of flooding downstream. With a history dating back to the early 1970s, Frd No 37 stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource utilization with environmental conservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
930 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
ELK RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.37 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
2.17 |
Nid Storage |
669.74 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Hourly Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Otter C At Climax
|
13cfs |
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
34cfs |
Whitewater R At Towanda
|
36cfs |
Fall R At Fredonia
|
24cfs |
Verdigris R Nr Virgil
|
60cfs |
Walnut R At Winfield
|
225cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Frd No 37