Thomas Hill Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Thomas Hill Reservoir Dam, located in Randolph County, Missouri, was completed in 1966 and serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Middle Fork Chariton River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 70 feet and has a storage capacity of 260,458 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 70,000 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an impressive surface area of 3,500 acres and is surrounded by a drainage area of 4,000 acres.

This Earth-type dam is primarily made of stone core and is founded on rock and soil. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 9 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 12,200 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in February 2017. The dam's purpose also includes recreation, making it a valuable resource for the community in addition to its flood protection capabilities.

Managed by a public utility, Thomas Hill Reservoir Dam is regulated by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program in Missouri. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam is closely monitored to ensure its safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks for the region. Its risk assessment is moderate, and measures are in place to manage potential hazards and emergencies effectively. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam serves as a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity in safeguarding communities while providing recreational opportunities in a scenic environment.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

2450

Dam Height

70

River Or Stream

MIDDLE FORK CHARITON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3500

Drainage Area

4000

Nid Storage

260458

Structural Height

70

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

70
       
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.