Noblett Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Noblett is a federal water resource structure located in Roby, Missouri, within the Little Rock District.


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Summary

Built in 1940 by the USDA FS, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 26 acres, Noblett serves as a crucial water management infrastructure in Douglas County.

Despite being categorized as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment, Noblett has not been rated for its condition. The last inspection in December 2019 revealed no detailed assessment, and there is no Emergency Action Plan in place. Nevertheless, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose as an earth dam, providing vital water resource management capabilities in the region. As a key asset owned by the Forest Service, Noblett plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and water supply sustainability.

Overall, Noblett stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of water resource infrastructure in Missouri. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century and its continued operation in the present day, Noblett represents a blend of function and heritage. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Noblett will play an increasingly crucial role in managing water supply, flood control, and ecosystem conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

253

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.