Kussman's Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: White Lake Dam Asher Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Kussman's Lake Dam, located in Keytesville, Missouri, serves as a crucial structure for debris control along the TR-LOCUST BRANCH river/stream.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1977, this private earth dam stands at 25 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. While primarily designed for debris control, the dam also provides fire protection, stock/small fish pond management, recreational opportunities, and water supply for the surrounding area. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Kussman's Lake Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in Chariton County.
Owned and operated privately, Kussman's Lake Dam is not regulated by the state of Missouri and does not fall under state jurisdiction. Despite minimal state involvement, the dam continues to fulfill its multiple purposes effectively. The dam's design, classified as a buttress earth dam, contributes to its stability and functionality. With a drainage area of 91 square miles and a surface area of 6 acres, the dam efficiently manages water flow and storage, ensuring optimal performance in various scenarios.
As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Kussman's Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of private ownership in water resource management. With its versatile purposes and low hazard potential, this dam exemplifies the balance between human needs and environmental protection. As climate change intensifies, structures like Kussman's Lake Dam will become even more critical in mitigating risks and ensuring sustainable water management for future generations.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LOCUST BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
91 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
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.
Kussman's Lake Dam