Frd No 43 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Frd No 43, also known as Upper Black Vermillion WS Dam 43, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Vermillion, Kansas.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and designed by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands 31 feet tall and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Black Vermillion River. Completed in 1972, the dam has a storage capacity of 356.2 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9.04 acres, with a drainage area of 0.67 square miles.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Frd No 43 is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has no outlet gates, with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, it continues to serve as a vital component of the local water resource management system, ensuring the safety and protection of surrounding communities in the event of flooding.

Situated in Nemaha County, Frd No 43 is a key part of the flood risk reduction infrastructure in the region, providing essential protection against potential inundation. With a history of effective operation and maintenance, this dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies to safeguard water resources and mitigate the impacts of climate-related events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Frd No 43 in maintaining the resilience and sustainability of our natural environment.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

BLACK VERMILLION RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.04

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.67

Nid Storage

356.2

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.