Mccowan Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Located in Middle Grove, Missouri, the Mccowan Dam is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Situated on the TR Hardin Creek, the dam covers a surface area of 6 acres and serves a drainage area of 97 square miles.
Despite its importance for irrigation, the Mccowan Dam poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. With no recent inspection data available, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment measures are also unknown. While it has not been regulated or inspected by state agencies, the St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees its operations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Mccowan Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation structure with limited regulatory oversight. Its location in Monroe County, Missouri, along the TR Hardin Creek, highlights the vital role it plays in the local agricultural sector. However, the lack of recent inspection data and information on emergency preparedness raise concerns about the dam's safety and resilience in the face of potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR HARDIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
97 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
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.
Mccowan Dam