Frd No 17 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 17, also known as Elk River WS Joint District No 47, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Elk Falls, Kansas.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the local government, specifically the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this dam was designed by USDA NRCS in 1976. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Frd No 17 is an earth dam with a buttress core type, standing at a height of 46 feet and a length of 1780 feet.

The dam has a storage capacity of 592.68 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 70 feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Frd No 17 is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet. While the structure has not been rated for its condition, it meets the necessary regulatory requirements set by the state of Kansas for inspection, enforcement, and permitting. The dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from the impacts of flooding and managing water resources along the Wildcat Creek-TR.

Overall, Frd No 17 serves as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Elk County, Kansas. With its carefully designed specifications and regulatory oversight, the dam provides a level of protection to the local community against potential flooding events. Its location, design, and purpose make it an essential component in the management of water resources and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

1780

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

WILDCAT CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.01

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

1.78

Nid Storage

592.68

Structural Height

46

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

46
       
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.