Buck Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Buck, Doe Run #4 Dam, located in Lewis County, Missouri, is a critical piece of infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the area.


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Summary

Constructed in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 48 feet high and spans 400 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 348 acre-feet and serving multiple purposes such as debris control, fire protection, stock or small fish pond, and recreation, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, ensuring that it meets safety standards and is inspected regularly. With a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory in 2007. The spillway, with a width of 60 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing excess water to flow safely during periods of high discharge. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has been deemed to effectively manage water resources and mitigate flood risks in the area.

Overall, Buck, Doe Run #4 Dam is a key component in the water management system of the Buck Run watershed. Through its strategic design and construction, the dam provides essential flood protection, water storage, and recreational opportunities for the local community. With regular inspections and maintenance, this dam continues to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of the water resources in Lewis County, Missouri.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

TR-BUCK RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

1050

Nid Storage

348

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

48
       
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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.