Frd No 14 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Located in Cowley, Kansas, Frd No 14, also known as Big Caney Watershed Dam 14, is a locally-owned earth dam designed by A&E and USDA SCS in 1966 for flood risk reduction along Bear Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 45 feet with a hydraulic height of 42 feet and a length of 1000 feet, this dam serves a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a normal storage capacity of 87 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.2 square miles, Frd No 14 plays a key role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, Frd No 14 is regulated and inspected by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, ensuring that it meets safety standards and continues to effectively mitigate flood risks. The dam's spillway, with a width of 60 feet and an uncontrolled design, further enhances its flood control capabilities. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its moderate risk assessment highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the critical role Frd No 14 plays in protecting the local community and environment from the impacts of flooding.
As a focal point for flood risk reduction in the area, Frd No 14 serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government agencies, designers, and regulators in safeguarding water resources and climate resilience. Its strategic location in Hewins, Kansas, and its proximity to Bear Creek underline its significance in managing surface water and drainage in the region. With its moderate risk assessment and uncontrolled spillway, Frd No 14 stands as a vital infrastructure asset that not only protects against flooding but also highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.31 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
828.17 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Caney R Nr Elgin
|
41cfs |
Walnut R At Winfield
|
877cfs |
Arkansas R At Arkansas City
|
1120cfs |
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
39cfs |
Caney River Above Coon Creek At Bartlesville
|
60cfs |
Arkansas River At Ralston
|
1820cfs |
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 14