Frd No 6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frd No 6 is a crucial earth dam located in Butler, Kansas, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Branch Walnut River.


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Summary

Built in 1982, this dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 2700 feet, providing storage capacity of 2690 acre-feet. With a surface area of 36 acres and a drainage area of 6.44 square miles, Frd No 6 plays a significant role in managing water flow and reducing the risk of flooding in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 6 stands as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the area. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the condition of the dam is currently not rated. The last inspection was conducted in July 2015, with an inspection frequency of every three years. With a spillway width of 160 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2500 cubic feet per second, Frd No 6 is equipped to handle significant water flow during periods of heavy rainfall.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frd No 6 presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management and flood risk reduction. As a key element in the local water management system, this dam highlights the importance of proactive maintenance, inspection, and emergency preparedness in ensuring the safety and functionality of critical water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water levels, the role of structures like Frd No 6 in mitigating flood risks becomes increasingly vital for the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the region.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

2700

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH WALNUT RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Drainage Area

6.44

Nid Storage

2690

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.