Sutter Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Sutter Dam, located in Emerson, Missouri, is a privately owned structure constructed in 1978 primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 173 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR Troublesome Creek in Marion County, Missouri, and is managed by the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Despite being privately owned, Sutter Dam has a high hazard potential, indicating the potential risk associated with its failure. The condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as "Not Rated," suggesting a need for further evaluation and maintenance. The dam does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, which is crucial for ensuring public safety in the event of an emergency.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Sutter Dam can explore its design characteristics, storage capacity, and the potential risks involved in its operation. The dam's location on Troublesome Creek highlights its significance in the local water management system, serving as a vital source of irrigation for the surrounding area. However, the lack of a current condition assessment and Emergency Action Plan underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR TROUBLESOME CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
163 |
Nid Storage |
173 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fabius River Near Taylor
|
12cfs |
North River At Palmyra
|
15cfs |
Wyaconda River Above Canton
|
13cfs |
Salt River Near Shelbina
|
16cfs |
Bear Creek At Hannibal
|
2cfs |
Salt River Near Center
|
63cfs |
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.
Sutter Dam