Hough Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hough Park Dam, located in Jefferson City, Missouri, is a vital structure managed by the local government for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet with a length of 555 feet, creating a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet on the TR Moreau River. The dam also serves as a flood control measure with a high hazard potential, but is currently in satisfactory condition following a 2009 assessment.

With a drainage area of 90 square miles, Hough Park Dam plays a critical role in managing water resources in Cole County. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 28 feet to manage a maximum discharge of 264 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety in compliance with state regulations, including permitting and enforcement by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hough Park Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety. Its location on the TR Moreau River provides both recreational opportunities and essential flood protection for the surrounding area. As a key feature in the local water management system, the dam's history, design, and ongoing maintenance highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing demands on our natural resources.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

555

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

TR MOREAU RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

90

Nid Storage

183

Structural Height

47

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

47
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.