Willow Creek Watershed Dam A- 27 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Willow Creek Watershed Dam A-27, also known as Ray County Dam # A-27, is a local government-owned structure located in Henrietta, Missouri.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for grade stabilization on TR-WILLOW CREEK. With a height of 33 feet and a length of 650 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 268 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not currently rated for condition assessment, Willow Creek Watershed Dam A-27 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and preventing erosion in the area. The uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet can handle a maximum discharge of 130 cubic feet per second, helping to regulate water flow during heavy rainfall events. While the dam is not regulated by the state and does not require inspections, it remains a key component of the local watershed infrastructure.

With its location in the Kansas City District and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver representing the area, Willow Creek Watershed Dam A-27 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local and federal agencies in ensuring the sustainability of water resources and climate resilience in Ray County, Missouri. As a vital piece of the watershed management system, this structure showcases the importance of effective design and construction practices in mitigating environmental risks and promoting community safety.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR-WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

380

Nid Storage

268

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.