Frd No 17, also known as Big Caney Watershed Dam 17, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Cedar Vale, Kansas. Designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1967, this structure serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the North Cedar Creek in Cowley County. With a height of 45 feet and a length of 930 feet, Frd No 17 has a storage capacity of 519.64 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.5 square miles.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Frd No 17 is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 220 cubic feet per second. Although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," Frd No 17 is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place at this time.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the infrastructure and management of dams in Kansas may find Frd No 17 to be a fascinating case study. With its historic construction and ongoing regulatory oversight, this earth dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood events. As efforts continue to monitor and assess the condition of Frd No 17, it remains a key component of the local watershed management system in Cowley County.