Frd No 20 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Frd No 20 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Elk County, Kansas, along the Lower Elk River.
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Summary
Built in 2006 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 42.4 feet and has a length of 2503 feet, with a storage capacity of 848 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Kansas Department of Agriculture and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Frd No 20 has a high hazard potential and is classified as a moderate risk, with a spillway width of 200 feet and uncontrolled spillway type. The dam is situated in a drainage area of 1.55 square miles and serves the primary purpose of water resource management. With a surface area of 16 acres and normal storage capacity of 115 acre-feet, Frd No 20 plays a crucial role in flood control and irrigation within the region, highlighting its importance in sustaining water resources amidst changing climate conditions.
As a key structure in the region, Frd No 20 is an essential component of the water infrastructure, contributing to the overall water management efforts in Elk County, Kansas. With its strategic location along the Lower Elk River and its significant storage capacity, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks and providing essential water resources for agricultural and environmental needs. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the value of structures like Frd No 20 in ensuring sustainable water management practices and adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
2503 |
Dam Height |
42.4 |
River Or Stream |
LOWER ELK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1.55 |
Nid Storage |
848 |
Structural Height |
47 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
47 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elk R At Elk Falls
|
39cfs |
Caney R Nr Elgin
|
41cfs |
Otter C At Climax
|
20cfs |
Fall R At Fredonia
|
384cfs |
Walnut R At Winfield
|
877cfs |
Verdigris R Nr Altoona
|
333cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Frd No 20