Buffalo Bill Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Buffalo Bill Dam, also known as Buffalo Bill Lake Dam, is a state-owned structure located in DeKalb, Missouri, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1990 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans 750 feet in length. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 271 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 45 acres, serving as a critical component in managing water resources in the region.
The dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri and undergoes regular inspections, with its condition assessed as satisfactory as of December 2007. With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Buffalo Bill Dam is equipped with a slide gate outlet and an uncontrolled spillway 150 feet wide. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet safety guidelines and remains a key structure for protecting the surrounding area from flooding events.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and located along the TRIB WEST FORK LOST CREEK, Buffalo Bill Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community of PATTONSBURG from water-related risks. With its robust design and ongoing maintenance, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive water resource management in mitigating potential disasters and ensuring the safety of residents in the region.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB WEST FORK LOST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
45 |
Drainage Area |
1360 |
Nid Storage |
271 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Buffalo Bill Dam