Frd No 21 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 21, also known as Wakarusa W.S.


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Summary

Dam No 21, is a local government-owned structure in Osage County, Kansas, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 73 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Burys Creek. With a storage capacity of 6,800 acre-feet and a drainage area of 12.47 square miles, Frd No 21 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Frd No 21 has a moderate risk rating and is subject to regular inspections every three years. With a spillway width of 129 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 7,490 cubic feet per second, this dam is equipped to handle potential flood events effectively. Located in Richland, Kansas, Frd No 21 is a key piece of infrastructure in the region's flood control system, safeguarding the surrounding communities from the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the critical role that structures like Frd No 21 play in mitigating flood risks and protecting communities. By understanding the design, purpose, and operational aspects of dams such as this, we can better appreciate the complex interplay between water management, infrastructure resilience, and climate adaptation strategies. Frd No 21 stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of water resource management with the challenges posed by a changing climate, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management and infrastructure maintenance in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

1120

Dam Height

73

River Or Stream

BURYS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

58.9

Hydraulic Height

73

Drainage Area

12.47

Nid Storage

6800

Structural Height

74

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

74
       
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.