Frd No 31 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frd No 31, also known as Little Walnut Hickory WS Dam 31, is a crucial water resource structure located in Butler County, Kansas.


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Summary

Constructed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 21.5 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, fire protection, and creating a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 524 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.13 square miles, Frd No 31 plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flood risks in the area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 31 is designated as a low hazard potential dam with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition has not been formally assessed, and its emergency action plan status remains unknown. With an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, Frd No 31 relies on its structural integrity to maintain water levels and protect the surrounding community from potential flooding events.

Overall, Frd No 31 is a key infrastructure asset in the region's water management system, providing essential flood protection and water storage capabilities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, its role in safeguarding the local environment and residents against potential hazards remains a top priority for the community and regulatory agencies alike.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1578

Dam Height

21.5

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH HICKORY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

1.13

Nid Storage

524

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.