Fairchild Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Fairchild Dam, located in Audrain County, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1972 for the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
It stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 1533 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 165 acre-feet. The dam spans the TR-Bean Branch river and covers a surface area of 4 acres, serving a drainage area of 128 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Fairchild Dam has not been rated for its condition. It operates an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and has no outlet gates or associated structures. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permitting, inspection, or enforcement. While it has not been modified in recent years, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unclear.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Fairchild Dam an intriguing structure for its role in supporting irrigation in the area. The dam's design and construction details, along with its location and hydraulic features, provide valuable insights into how water resources are managed in the region. Monitoring the dam's condition and risk assessment over time could offer valuable lessons for sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
1533 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
128 |
Nid Storage |
165 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Fairchild Dam