Frd No 26 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frd No 26, also known as Little Walnut Hickory WS Dam 26, is a crucial water infrastructure project located in Butler, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along Plum Creek-Tr. With a normal storage capacity of 67 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 880 acre-feet, this dam covers a surface area of 16.1 acres and has a drainage area of 2.17 square miles.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 26 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition assessment is not rated, inspections and enforcement are carried out regularly to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway width of 40 feet helps manage any excess water flow efficiently. With its strategic location and purpose, Frd No 26 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flood events.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering details and regulatory oversight associated with Frd No 26. Designed by A&E and USDA SCS, this dam demonstrates the collaborative effort between federal and state agencies to mitigate flood risks in the region. The presence of emergency action plans and risk management measures further highlight the commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of this important water infrastructure project.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

840

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

PLUM CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.1

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

2.17

Nid Storage

880

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.