Frd No 3-1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Frd No 2-4 Dd No 106
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Frd No 3-1, also known as Upper Verdigris WS Dam 3 1, is a vital structure located in Lyon County, Kansas, owned by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Rock Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 1877 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.89 square miles, Frd No 3-1 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam, with a structural height of 40 feet and a spillway width of 130 feet, has a significant hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition. Despite its age, Frd No 3-1 has a moderate risk rating and undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. While it currently does not have outlet gates, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service demonstrate a commitment to effective flood risk management and water resource conservation in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 3-1 serves as a notable example of infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks and protect communities in Kansas. As part of the broader network of dams and reservoirs in the area, this earth dam plays a crucial role in water management and contributes to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. Its history, design, and operational features make it an intriguing subject for further study and appreciation of the intersection between water resources and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1815 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.39 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
3.89 |
Nid Storage |
1877 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cottonwood R Nr Plymouth
|
898cfs |
Neosho R Nr Americus
|
75cfs |
Verdigris R Nr Virgil
|
183cfs |
Marais Des Cygnes R Nr Reading
|
10cfs |
Cedar C Nr Cedar Point
|
61cfs |
Neosho R At Council Grove
|
4cfs |
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 3-1