Located in Elk Falls, Kansas, Frd No 48, also known as Elk River WS Joint District No 47, is a local government-owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS in 1978 for flood risk reduction along the Elk River-TR. With a height of 40 feet and a length of 1080 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 429 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and flood risk reduction.

Managed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and regulated by state authorities, Frd No 48 has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not-rated condition assessment status. Although the dam has not undergone recent inspections, it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam does not have an emergency action plan in place, but its purpose and design continue to serve the community in mitigating flood risks along the Elk River.

Despite not being maintained by federal agencies, Frd No 48 plays a crucial role in protecting the Elk Falls area from potential flooding events. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like Frd No 48 in ensuring community safety and resilience against natural disasters becomes increasingly evident.