Frd No 23 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 23, also known as Wakarusa Watershed Dam 23, is a key infrastructure owned by the local government in Osage, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by USDA NRCS, this buttress dam stands at 44 feet high and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Elk Creek. With a storage capacity of 1012 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flood hazards.

Located in the Tulsa District, Frd No 23 is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, this dam remains an essential component of the local water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the importance of such flood control structures becomes increasingly evident in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the effects of extreme weather events.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the role of infrastructure like Frd No 23 in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources. By understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory oversight of such dams, we can appreciate the efforts made to manage water flow and reduce the risks associated with flooding. With ongoing maintenance and monitoring, these structures contribute to the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

ELK CREEK

Hydraulic Height

38

Nid Storage

1012

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.