Dearborn Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dearborn Reservoir Dam, located in Buchanan, Missouri, serves as a crucial water supply source for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet. With a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 370 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the local government, Dearborn Reservoir Dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently rated as "Not Rated." Despite its age, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of providing water supply to the surrounding area. With no state regulation, inspection, or enforcement in place, the responsibility for maintaining and ensuring the safety of the dam falls on the local authorities.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, enthusiasts and stakeholders in the water sector are closely monitoring dams like Dearborn Reservoir for any potential risks or vulnerabilities. The dam's proximity to TR-Bee Creek and its critical role in water supply highlight the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the community it serves.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-BEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

370

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.