Frd No 5-1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Frd No 5-2 Frd No 5-11
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Frd No 5-1, also known as Upper Verdigris Watershed Dam 5-1, is a vital structure located in Madison, Kansas, owned and regulated by the local government.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 41 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the South Branch Verdigris River watershed. With a storage capacity of 1430 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5.84 square miles, Frd No 5-1 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.
Despite its age, Frd No 5-1 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating its structural resilience and effectiveness in flood control. The dam boasts a spillway width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2300 cubic feet per second, ensuring efficient water flow management during periods of heavy rainfall. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its strategic location and design make it a key component of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in Greenwood County, Kansas.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Frd No 5-1 in safeguarding communities and critical infrastructure from flooding is essential. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this dam represents a tangible example of proactive water management and disaster risk reduction efforts in the region. By highlighting the technical specifications and operational parameters of Frd No 5-1, we can appreciate the intricate balance between water resource utilization and climate resilience in maintaining a sustainable and secure environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1660 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
SO BRANCH VERDIGRIS RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28.87 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
5.84 |
Nid Storage |
1430 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cottonwood R Nr Plymouth
|
898cfs |
Verdigris R Nr Virgil
|
183cfs |
Neosho R Nr Americus
|
75cfs |
Cedar C Nr Cedar Point
|
61cfs |
Otter C At Climax
|
22cfs |
Neosho R At Burlington
|
2740cfs |
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 5-1