Located in Butler, Kansas, Frd No 17, also known as Little Walnut Hickory WS Dam 17, was completed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. This earth dam stands at 28 feet in height with a hydraulic height of 25 feet, providing storage of 875 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 17.68 acres. The dam is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and efficacy in managing floodwaters.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Frd No 17 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 397 cubic feet per second. Despite not having outlet gates, the dam has been designed to effectively manage water flow and reduce the risk of flooding in the region. The structure is situated along the No Branch of the Little Walnut River-TR, providing essential flood risk reduction benefits to the community of Leon and beyond.

As a key component of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in the area, Frd No 17 serves as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability. With its design and construction overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam continues to uphold its primary purpose of safeguarding the community against flooding. Through regulatory oversight, regular inspections, and risk assessments, Frd No 17 remains a reliable and essential asset in the effort to protect the region from the potential dangers of high water levels and inundation.