Miller Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Miller Dam, located in Pike County, Missouri, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this dam stands at 30 feet tall and spans a length of 430 feet, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Tanyard Branch river, the dam also provides benefits for fire protection, stock, grade stabilization, and recreation in the area.

Although not regulated by the state, Miller Dam is deemed to have a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its condition being currently unrated, the dam remains a vital structure within the community. With its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates, the dam presents unique challenges and opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in its maintenance and potential enhancements to its risk management measures.

For those passionate about water resource infrastructure and environmental conservation, Miller Dam offers a compelling case study in the intersection of human development and nature. As it continues to play a role in supporting local fish and wildlife habitats, as well as providing recreational opportunities, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable dam management practices and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of such vital structures in our communities.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-TANYARD BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

85

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.