Frd No 36-A Reservoir Report
Nearby: Frd No 36-B Frd No 38
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Frd No 36-A, also known as Big Caney WS Dam 36-A, is a local government-owned structure located in Grenola, Kansas along the Schrader Branch Caney River.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 2,489.2 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 546.3 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 25.75 acres and has a drainage area of 4.43 square miles.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 100 feet, and it has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition. The last inspection was conducted in March 2016, with a frequency of every 5 years. While the risk assessment categorizes the structure as moderate, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans documented as of now. Overall, Frd No 36-A plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 36-A serves as a fascinating example of a locally managed earth dam that addresses flood risk reduction while also providing some recreational opportunities. The dam's construction history, design features, and operational details contribute to a better understanding of water infrastructure management in the context of environmental challenges and regulatory requirements. Additionally, the dam's location along the Schrader Branch Caney River in Elk County, Kansas, underscores the important role that such structures play in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against potential water-related hazards.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
1900 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
SCHRADER BRANCH CANEY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.75 |
Hydraulic Height |
53 |
Drainage Area |
4.43 |
Nid Storage |
2489.2 |
Structural Height |
56 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
56 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
39cfs |
Caney R Nr Elgin
|
41cfs |
Otter C At Climax
|
20cfs |
Walnut R At Winfield
|
877cfs |
Fall R At Fredonia
|
384cfs |
Arkansas R At Arkansas City
|
1120cfs |
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 36-A