Frd No 16 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frd No 16, also known as Little Walnut Hickory WS Dam 16, is a vital structure owned and regulated by the local government in Butler, Kansas.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the South Branch of the Little Walnut River. With a storage capacity of 368 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.39 square miles, Frd No 16 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Frd No 16 poses a moderate risk due to its age and condition not being rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and no outlet gates. Located in Leon, Kansas, this structure is subject to state regulation by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, with inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality. With a history of moderate risk assessment, Frd No 16 remains a key component in the local water resource management system, serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

SO BR LITTLE WALNUT RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.14

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

1.39

Nid Storage

368

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.