Kemper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Jackson, Missouri, the Kemper Dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, as well as recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment.

Situated on the TR-BLUE RIVER, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for various activities in the area. Despite being privately owned, the Kemper Dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, suggesting a self-regulated management approach. With a normal storage capacity of 33 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres, the dam contributes to the overall water management system in the region.

The Kemper Dam's strategic location in KANSAS CITY offers valuable water resources for the community, while also serving as a recreational spot for locals. With its historical significance dating back to the 1940s, the dam continues to play a vital role in supporting fire protection measures and maintaining a sustainable ecosystem for fish and other wildlife. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kemper Dam stands as a testament to the importance of efficient water management practices in balancing human needs with environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

50

Nid Storage

66

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.