Henry Sever Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Henry Sever Dam, located in Knox County, Missouri, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1961 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 41 feet and stretching 1160 feet in length, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 2265 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 160 acres. The dam, designed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, spans the Meyers Branch river and is under the jurisdiction of the DAM and Reservoir Safety Program.
With a high hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of 2007, Henry Sever Dam poses moderate risk with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and valve outlet gates for water discharge. Despite being last inspected in May 2015 with a frequency of every 3 years, the dam's emergency action plan and inundation maps status remain unclear. The dam's risk management measures and emergency response preparedness should be continuously evaluated to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and water resources in the event of a potential failure.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
1160 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
MEYERS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
160 |
Drainage Area |
1984 |
Nid Storage |
2265 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Henry Sever Dam