Frd No 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 5, also known as Big Creek Watershed Dam No 5, is a vital structure located in Coffey County, Kansas.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Varvel Creek. Completed in 1979, Frd No 5 stands at a height of 36 feet and has a storage capacity of 1781.8 acre-feet, providing essential protection to the surrounding area against potential flooding events.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Frd No 5 has not been rated for its current condition. Despite this, the dam remains a crucial component of the flood risk management system in the region, offering protection to the local community and infrastructure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 70 feet, ensuring efficient water discharge during high flow events and maintaining the integrity of the structure.

The location of Frd No 5 in LeRoy, Kansas, highlights its significance in safeguarding the area against flood risks. As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, structures like Frd No 5 play a crucial role in mitigating the potential impacts of flooding and protecting the community. The dam’s construction, design, and regulatory oversight demonstrate a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

1780

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

VARVEL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28.22

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

3.44

Nid Storage

1781.8

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

36
       
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.