Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this dam was designed for flood risk reduction along the Cottonwood River. With a dam height of 38 feet and a storage capacity of 530 acre-feet, Frd No 8 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 8 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 160 cubic feet per second.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location and design of Frd No 8, which serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region. As part of the Silver Creek Watershed system, this dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area, safeguarding communities and agricultural lands from the impacts of extreme weather events. The collaboration between local government, state agencies, and federal designers highlights the importance of multi-level partnerships in ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1010 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
1.54 |
Nid Storage |
530 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |