Buckman Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Glover Dam Smith Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Buckman Dam, located in Shelby, Missouri, was completed in 1954 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This private dam on Jackson Creek stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet. While it serves multiple purposes including recreation, the dam is not regulated or inspected by the state and is classified as having a high hazard potential.
With a surface area of 10 acres and a drainage area of 435 square miles, Buckman Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its age, the dam's condition is currently not rated, and there are no emergency action plans in place. Its proximity to the city of Florida and the lack of state oversight raise concerns about the potential risks associated with the dam, especially in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buckman Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure that plays a significant role in local water management. The dam's history, design, and lack of regulatory oversight highlight the complexities of balancing water resource needs with safety and environmental concerns. As discussions around water security and climate resilience continue to evolve, Buckman Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and management of critical infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water resources.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
JACKSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
435 |
Nid Storage |
134 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Buckman Dam