Ashland Wildlife Area Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

The Ashland Wildlife Area Dam, also known as the Ashland Wildlife Research Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Boone County, Missouri.


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Summary

This dam was completed in 1937 and serves multiple purposes, including recreation and other activities. It stands at a height of 44 feet, with a hydraulic height of 40 feet and a length of 270 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 429 acre-feet and is situated on Brushy Creek, within the St. Louis District of Missouri.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the Ashland Wildlife Area Dam is regularly inspected by the state regulatory agency for dam and reservoir safety. The dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with the last condition assessment conducted in December 2007. The structure also has an emergency action plan in place, ensuring that appropriate risk management measures are in place to address any potential issues. Overall, the dam presents a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate will find the Ashland Wildlife Area Dam to be a fascinating structure within the natural landscape of Boone County, Missouri. With its historical significance, recreational opportunities, and commitment to safety and risk management, this dam serves as a valuable asset to the local community and the surrounding environment. Its presence on Brushy Creek adds to the rich biodiversity of the region, making it a key location for wildlife observation and conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

BRUSHY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

2475

Nid Storage

429

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.