Frd No 39 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Frd No 39, also known as Upper Black Vermillion WS Dam 39, is a crucial water management structure located in Vermillion, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam plays a vital role in flood risk reduction along the Black Vermillion River. With a height of 33 feet and a length of 760 feet, Frd No 39 has a storage capacity of 231.39 acre-feet, serving as a key resource for the local community.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 39 is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway of Frd No 39 has a width of 120 feet to effectively handle excess water during times of high flow.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Frd No 39 in mitigating flood risks and managing water resources in Nemaha County, Kansas. With its strategic location and design, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation and contributes to the overall resilience of the region against extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

BLACK VERMILLION RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.66

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

0.54

Nid Storage

231.39

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.