Frd No 18 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Frd No 18, also known as Little Walnut Hickory WS Dam 18, is a vital structure located in Butler, Kansas, owned by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.
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Summary
Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28.7 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the South Branch of the Little Walnut River. With a storage capacity of 510.96 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.53 square miles, Frd No 18 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and has a hazard potential rated as significant, with a moderate risk assessment. Despite not having a current condition assessment, Frd No 18 undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood control. The dam's location, design, and operational features make it a key component in the water management infrastructure of the area, providing essential protection against potential flooding events and safeguarding the surrounding communities.
As a part of the flood risk reduction system, Frd No 18 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Butler, Kansas. With its strategic placement and design, this earth dam continues to serve its purpose in mitigating flood risks and managing water resources effectively. The ongoing inspections and monitoring of Frd No 18 demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the dam's functionality and readiness to respond to potential emergencies, highlighting the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
970 |
Dam Height |
28.7 |
River Or Stream |
SO BR LITTLE WALNUT RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.87 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
1.53 |
Nid Storage |
510.96 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Whitewater R At Towanda
|
64cfs |
Otter C At Climax
|
22cfs |
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
41cfs |
Arkansas R At Derby
|
464cfs |
Cedar C Nr Cedar Point
|
61cfs |
Arkansas R At Wichita
|
368cfs |
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 18