Frd No 42 is a flood risk reduction dam located in Lincoln, Kansas, along the West Branch Elkhorn Creek. Built in 1995 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and stretches 1800 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 2063 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6.64 square miles, the dam serves as a crucial infrastructure to mitigate flooding in the area.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Frd No 42 is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 4571 cubic feet per second through an uncontrolled spillway. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not having a condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level (3). With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, Frd No 42 plays a significant role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.

Located in a picturesque setting near ADA, Frd No 42 is a key structure in the flood risk management infrastructure of Kansas. With a history of effective operation since its completion in 1995, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and supporting the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Frd No 42 is essential in safeguarding our communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events.