Frd No 39, also known as Big Caney WS Dam 39, is a local government-owned structure located in Grenola, Kansas. Completed in 1965, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the East Fork Caney River. Standing at a height of 41 feet with a hydraulic height of 38 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1578.03 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 33.76 acres.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 39 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Despite not having a current condition assessment, the structure is designed with buttress core types and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet to handle a maximum discharge of 1951 cubic feet per second.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 39 presents an intriguing case study of local government efforts in flood risk reduction. With its location in Elk County, Kansas, and its association with the East Fork Caney River, this dam highlights the importance of infrastructure resilience in safeguarding communities against natural disasters. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Frd No 39 play a vital role in enhancing watershed management and protecting the environment for future generations.