Frd No 40 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Frd No 40, also known as Upper Black Vermillion WS Dam 40, is a vital structure located in Vermillion, Kansas, designed by the USDA NRCS to serve as a flood risk reduction measure along the Black Vermillion River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1972, this buttress dam stands at a height of 32 feet, with a hydraulic height of 29 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Frd No 40 is to mitigate flood risks in the area, making it an essential asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and regulated by the state, Frd No 40 has a low hazard potential and is currently considered to be in a not-rated condition. While information on its inspection frequency and emergency preparedness is not available, the dam's location and design make it a key infrastructure for flood control in Nemaha County. With its significant role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flooding events, Frd No 40 showcases the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience strategies.
As part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service's portfolio of flood risk reduction structures, Frd No 40 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and federal resources to protect communities and the environment. Its presence along the Black Vermillion River ensures that the area is better equipped to handle extreme weather events and potential flooding, highlighting the critical role that infrastructure plays in adapting to changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 40 serves as a tangible example of proactive measures taken to enhance resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK VERMILLION RIVER-TR |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Vermillion R Nr Frankfort
|
43cfs |
Turkey C Nr Seneca
|
14cfs |
Vermillion C Nr Wamego
|
8cfs |
Big Blue R At Marysville
|
164cfs |
Big Blue R At Barneston Nebr
|
131cfs |
Rock C Nr Louisville
|
16cfs |
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 40