Frd No 17 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frd No 17, also known as Upper Walnut WS Joint District No 33, is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Butler, Kansas.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this earth dam was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1976. With a height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 797.85 acre-feet, Frd No 17 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area.

The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a spillway width of 40 feet and a hazard potential rated as low. Despite its condition not being rated, Frd No 17 is considered to have a moderate risk level. This structure, situated along the COLE CREEK-TR river/stream, covers a drainage area of 1.69 square miles and offers a normal storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. While it does not have outlet gates, Frd No 17 serves as a vital resource for water management and protection against potential floods in the region.

With its strategic location and design, Frd No 17 stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in Kansas. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the condition of this earth dam, its role in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential inundation remains paramount. The collaborative efforts of local government, regulatory agencies, and design professionals highlight the importance of proactive measures in ensuring the resilience of water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

1290

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

COLE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19.26

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1.69

Nid Storage

797.85

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.