Cates Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Cates Dam, located in Montgomery, Missouri, along the TR Smith Branch river, was completed in 1968 with a primary purpose of "Other." This privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet, providing essential water resource management for the surrounding area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a Hazard Potential rated as "High," Cates Dam plays a critical role in flood control and reservoir storage within the region.
Although Cates Dam is not state-regulated or permitted, its significance in water resource management cannot be understated. The dam's condition is currently "Not Rated," with the last inspection dating back to 1979. As a key infrastructure in the area, the dam's operation and maintenance are crucial for ensuring its structural integrity and continued efficacy in mitigating flood risks and managing water resources effectively.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cates Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management. With its high hazard potential and limited regulatory oversight, the dam's role in water management and flood control highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of such critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water resource demands.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR SMITH BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
77 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Hermann
|
28400cfs |
Cuivre River Near Troy
|
222cfs |
South Fork Salt River Above Santa Fe
|
59cfs |
Long Branch Near Santa Fe
|
134cfs |
Lick Creek At Perry
|
22cfs |
Spencer Cr. Bl Plum Cr. Nr Frankford
|
24cfs |
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.
Cates Dam