Frd No 27 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 27, also known as Elk River WS Joint District No 47, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Howard, Kansas.


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Summary

Completed in 1978 by USDA NRCS, this structure plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along Paw Paw Creek. With a height of 35 feet and a length of 1570 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1035.56 acre-feet, providing essential protection for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 27 is state-regulated and regularly inspected to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The dam's spillway, with a width of 110 feet, is categorized as uncontrolled, reflecting its low hazard potential. Despite being rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the structure is deemed to have moderate risk and is subject to risk management measures to maintain its functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 27 serves as a prime example of effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in Kansas. With its strategic location and design, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the local community from potential disasters, highlighting the importance of proper management and maintenance of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

1570

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

PAW PAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.81

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

2.58

Nid Storage

1035.56

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.