Little Sni-A-Bar No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Little Sni-A-Bar No.
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Summary
1, also known as Little Sni-A-Bar Watershed Site #1 Dam, is a key water resource structure located in Lafayette, Missouri. Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Little Sni A Bar Creek. With a height of 49 feet and a length of 1200 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 5860 acre-feet and a drainage area of 9200 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Little Sni-A-Bar No. 1 was deemed unsatisfactory as of March 2021. Regular inspections by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri ensure that the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled with a width of 350 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 12200 cubic feet per second in the event of heavy rainfall.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and management efforts that go into maintaining the safety and functionality of dams like Little Sni-A-Bar No. 1. As part of flood risk reduction infrastructure in the region, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting communities and managing water resources effectively. Its moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued performance in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SNI A BAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
105 |
Drainage Area |
9200 |
Nid Storage |
5860 |
Structural Height |
49 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
49 |
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.
Little Sni-A-Bar No. 1