Frd No 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Cowley, Kansas, Frd No 4, also known as Timber Creek Watershed Dam 4, is a local government-owned structure designed by A&E and the USDA SCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the Timber Creek watershed. With a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.45 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating the risk of flooding in the region.

The dam's spillway, categorized as uncontrolled, has a width of 40 feet, while the hazard potential is rated as low with a moderate risk level. Despite lacking a condition assessment rating, Frd No 4 meets state regulatory standards and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. The structure's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are currently unspecified, suggesting potential areas for improvement in emergency preparedness and risk mitigation strategies.

With a moderate risk assessment and a history of serving the community since its completion over five decades ago, Frd No 4 remains a vital asset in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flood hazards. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the importance of well-maintained dams like Frd No 4 in flood risk reduction and water management cannot be overstated. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed and engaged in the maintenance and enhancement of such critical infrastructure is essential for ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

1250

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TIMBER-CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.84

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

1.45

Nid Storage

671.72

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.
View more

Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Frd No 432 Preview 32
Frd No 430 Preview 30
Frd No 427 Preview 27