Frd No 34 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Frd No 34, located in Elk County, Kansas, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the Elk River.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 3000 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1150 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 107.8 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Frd No 34 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 34 is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1120 cubic feet per second. Despite not having a formal condition assessment, this dam remains operational and serves its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively. The surrounding community in Howard, Kansas, can rest assured knowing that Frd No 34 is in place to safeguard against potential floodwaters from the Elk River.

Although Frd No 34 has not been rated for its condition, it is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With a designated emergency action plan and updated contact information, this dam is prepared to handle any unforeseen events that may arise. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the vital role that Frd No 34 plays in sustainable water management and flood mitigation efforts in Elk County, Kansas.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

3000

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

ELK RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

2.02

Nid Storage

1150

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

43
       
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.