Frd No 15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 15, also known as Elk River WS Joint District No 47, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Longton, Kansas.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, specifically the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this earth dam was designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1978. The dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a storage capacity of 2449.32 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Hitchen Creek.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Frd No 15 is a crucial infrastructure for managing flood risks in the Elk County area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 200 feet, ensuring efficient water discharge during high flow events. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated", regular inspections by the state regulatory agency and enforcement of safety measures contribute to the overall risk management of the structure.

Overall, Frd No 15 plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding, showcasing the collaboration between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding water resources in Kansas. The structure's design, construction, and operation reflect a commitment to reducing flood risks and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the region.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

1740

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

WEST HITCHEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33.83

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

6.38

Nid Storage

2449.32

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

50
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.