Frd No 53, located in Ness County, Kansas, is a crucial earth dam constructed in 1987 by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along Walnut Creek. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 3690 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 2380 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 9.58 square miles. Its spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 100 feet, and it has a low hazard potential.

Managed by the local government with oversight from the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 53 is in excellent condition and has a moderate risk rating. While it currently does not have a condition assessment or Emergency Action Plan in place, its risk management measures are effective in ensuring public safety. Despite being a non-USACE structure, Frd No 53 stands as a testament to effective collaboration between federal and state agencies in managing water resources for flood control in rural Kansas communities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by Frd No 53's strategic placement along Walnut Creek, its efficient flood risk reduction capabilities, and the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in its management. This earth dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, serves as a vital infrastructure project that protects the surrounding community from potential flooding events. Its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight its importance in safeguarding local residents and infrastructure from the impacts of extreme weather events in the region.