Frd No 42 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 42, also known as Elk River WS District No 47, is a vital water resource management structure located in Elk Falls, Kansas.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Elk River. Designed by USDA NRCS, this buttress dam stands at a height of 44 feet with a length of 750 feet, providing a storage capacity of 797 acre-feet.

Situated in the Kansas City District, Frd No 42 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region with a low hazard potential. With a maximum discharge of 200 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 40 feet, this dam ensures effective water management during peak flow periods. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, Frd No 42 remains a key infrastructure for maintaining the safety and sustainability of water resources in Elk County.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Frd No 42 is essential for ensuring resilient water management systems in the face of changing environmental conditions. By recognizing the role of local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in designing and regulating such critical infrastructure, we can appreciate the efforts made to safeguard communities and ecosystems from the impacts of flooding and water scarcity. Frd No 42 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts in place to protect and manage water resources for the benefit of all stakeholders in Elk Falls and beyond.

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

ELK RIVER-TR

Hydraulic Height

42

Nid Storage

797

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.