Bilby Ranch Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bilby Ranch Dam, located in Nodaway, Missouri, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1991 with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
This impressive structure stands at a height of 54 feet, with a hydraulic height of 44 feet and a length of 1482 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 2970 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 110 acres, drawing water from the TR Nodaway River to support its ecosystem.
Managed by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, Bilby Ranch Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in a satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2007. Despite its modest spillway width of 0 feet, the dam has a drainage area of 1760 acres and plays a vital role in maintaining the surrounding wildlife habitat. The dam's inspection frequency is currently at 0, but it undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and functionality for the local community and ecosystem.
With its proximity to the Kansas City District and the oversight of the state regulatory agency, Bilby Ranch Dam serves as a vital water resource and wildlife sanctuary in Missouri. Water resource and climate enthusiasts would appreciate the significant role this dam plays in supporting the local ecosystem and contributing to the conservation efforts in the region. Its construction, management, and purpose highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices for the benefit of both human and environmental well-being.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
1482 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
TR NODAWAY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
110 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
1760 |
Nid Storage |
2970 |
Structural Height |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nodaway River Near Burlington Jct
|
127cfs |
Nodaway River Near Graham
|
101cfs |
Tarkio River At Fairfax Mo
|
63cfs |
One Hundred And Two River At Maryville
|
16cfs |
Missouri River At Rulo
|
26000cfs |
Nodaway River At Clarinda
|
20cfs |
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.
Bilby Ranch Dam