Frd No 40, also known as Little Walnut Hickory WS Dam 40, is a local government-owned structure located in Douglass, Kansas. Completed in 1965, this earth dam was designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Hickory Creek-TR river or stream. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 955 feet, Frd No 40 has a normal storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 290 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 40 is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. Despite its simple uncontrolled spillway type, Frd No 40 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and functionality of structures like Frd No 40 is essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. By staying informed about the design, maintenance, and regulatory aspects of dams and reservoirs, individuals can contribute to sustainable water management practices and climate adaptation strategies in their localities. Frd No 40 serves as a tangible example of these efforts, highlighting the interconnectedness of water resources, infrastructure resilience, and environmental stewardship in addressing the challenges of a changing climate.