Frd No 81 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Frd No 81, also known as Upper Black Vermillion WS Dam 81, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Vliets, Kansas.


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Summary

Constructed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 710 feet in length. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Frd No 81 plays a key role in protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related hazards.

Situated on the North Fork Black Vermillion River, Frd No 81 has a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.89 acres. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 40 feet, and it is classified as having a low hazard potential. Despite not having a current condition assessment, Frd No 81 is deemed to have a moderate risk level of 3, highlighting its importance in managing water resources and climate-related risks in the region.

Maintained by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Frd No 81 is a critical piece of infrastructure that contributes to the overall water management efforts in Marshall County, Kansas. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of weather events, structures like Frd No 81 play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting communities and ecosystems downstream.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

710

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

N FORK BLACK VERMILLION RIV-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.89

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.