Frd No 16 (Spillman Creek) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frd No 16, also known as Spillman Creek Watershed Dam 16, is a local government-owned structure located in Denmark, Kansas.


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Summary

Completed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Bacon Creek. With a storage capacity of 959.72 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.1 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing the risk of flooding in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Frd No 16 has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 70 feet and no outlet gates. While the condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated" due to the lack of recent inspections, the structure remains under state regulation and inspection by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. With a risk management plan in place, Frd No 16 continues to provide essential flood protection for the surrounding community, showcasing the importance of proper water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 16 serves as a fascinating example of local government efforts to mitigate flood risks and safeguard communities against natural disasters. With its strategic location in Lincoln County, Kansas, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of federal and state agencies in ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, Frd No 16 remains a critical piece of the puzzle in maintaining the balance between human development and environmental sustainability in the region.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

1075

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

BACON CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.76

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

2.1

Nid Storage

959.72

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.