Frd No 12 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Okla. Land & Cattle Co. Frd No 14
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Frd No 12, also known as Big Caney Watershed Dam 12, is a vital water resource structure located in Cowley, Kansas.
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Summary
Constructed in 1967 by A&E and USDA SCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Rock Creek. With a height of 72 feet and a storage capacity of over 10,000 acre-feet, Frd No 12 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 12 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition and has not been rated for its structural integrity. With a spillway width of 200 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, Frd No 12 is equipped to handle excess water flow during high precipitation events. Its location in Hewins, Kansas, makes it a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 12 serves as a fascinating example of how engineering and design can mitigate the impact of natural disasters. As part of the larger network of dams and reservoirs in the area, this structure plays a critical role in managing water flow and protecting downstream communities. With its strategic placement along Rock Creek and its robust construction, Frd No 12 stands as a testament to the importance of proactive flood risk reduction measures in safeguarding water resources and enhancing climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
1830 |
Dam Height |
72 |
River Or Stream |
ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
111.41 |
Hydraulic Height |
69 |
Drainage Area |
25.1 |
Nid Storage |
10649.35 |
Structural Height |
72 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
72 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Caney R Nr Elgin
|
41cfs |
Arkansas R At Arkansas City
|
1120cfs |
Walnut R At Winfield
|
877cfs |
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
39cfs |
Arkansas River At Ralston
|
1820cfs |
Caney River Above Coon Creek At Bartlesville
|
60cfs |
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 12