Dd No 2-18a, also known as Pawnee Watershed Dam 2-18a, is a local government-owned structure located in Sanford, Kansas, within the Pawnee River watershed. Built in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 27 feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters.

With a storage capacity of 1,483 acre-feet and a normal storage of 97 acre-feet, Dd No 2-18a covers a surface area of 26.6 acres and drains an area of 4.96 square miles. The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type, boasts a width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,508 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Dd No 2-18a is in fair condition as of its last inspection in April 2014, and is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

Overall, Dd No 2-18a plays a crucial role in managing flood risks within the Pawnee River watershed, offering protection to the local community against potential water-related emergencies. The dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water resource management, while its state-regulated status ensures ongoing monitoring and enforcement to maintain its structural integrity and functionality for years to come.