Frd No 16, also known as Wakarusa Watershed Dist 35 Frd 16, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Shawnee, Kansas. Owned by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this dam was completed in 1975 and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Wakarusa River. With a structural height of 45 feet and a hydraulic height of 41 feet, Frd No 16 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.

Constructed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Frd No 16 has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite its age, this dam continues to provide essential flood protection for the community of Wakarusa. With a storage capacity of 2540 acre-feet and a spillway width of 300 feet, Frd No 16 is equipped to handle excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. While it has not been inspected since 2007, this structure remains a vital asset in safeguarding the local area from potential water-related disasters.

As a key component of the flood control infrastructure in Shawnee County, Frd No 16 serves as a critical barrier against the destructive forces of flooding. With its buttress core type and unknown foundation, this dam represents a significant investment in water resource management and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of structures like Frd No 16 in protecting communities and natural habitats from the impacts of extreme weather events.