Gingerich Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Gingerich, Ursel Dam in Missouri, completed in 1964, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure on the North Fork Middle Fabius River.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at 26 feet tall, with a length of 440 feet and a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. While primarily designed for flood risk reduction, it also supports fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and recreational activities in the surrounding area.

Located in Schuyler County, Missouri, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a vital asset for the community. With a spillway width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 50 cubic feet per second, Gingerich, Ursel Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the local ecosystem. Despite being uninspected since 1979, its structural integrity remains in good standing, ensuring continued safety and functionality for years to come.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Gingerich, Ursel Dam represents a harmonious blend of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its multi-purpose design not only mitigates flood risks but also enhances the ecological landscape and promotes sustainable water management practices in the region. With its strategic location and historical significance, this earth dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water infrastructure for both human communities and natural habitats.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

N. FK. MIDDLE FABIUS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

371.2

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.