Frd No 44 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 44, also known as Elk River WS Joint District No 47, is a local government-owned structure in Elk Falls, Kansas.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This flood risk reduction dam, completed in 1977, stands 34.2 feet tall and spans 1265 feet along the Mound Branch Elk River. With a maximum storage capacity of 513 acre-feet and a normal storage of 54 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being labeled as having a low hazard potential, Frd No 44 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. The dam, with a spillway width of 40 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, has not been modified in recent years and is currently assessed as being in a not rated condition. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the structure is equipped with emergency action plans, although details on their preparation and adherence to guidelines are not specified in the data.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 44 serves as a fascinating example of infrastructure designed for flood risk reduction in Kansas. Its dimensions, storage capacity, and regulatory framework highlight the importance of such structures in managing water flow and protecting communities from potential disasters. As efforts to mitigate climate change continue, understanding the role of dams like Frd No 44 becomes increasingly crucial in safeguarding our water resources and adapting to changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1265

Dam Height

34.2

River Or Stream

MOUND BRANCH ELK RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.19

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

1.12

Nid Storage

513

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.