Taum Sauk Ps Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Taum Sauk Ps Upper, located in Lesterville, Missouri, is a captivating hydroelectric structure constructed in 1963 by Sverdrup & Parcel Eng Co.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 125 feet with a structural height of 94 feet, this Roller-Compacted Concrete dam harnesses the power of the East Fork Black River. With a storage capacity of 4350 acre-feet and a surface area of 54.5 acres, Taum Sauk Ps Upper plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and generating clean energy for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections. Despite its age, Taum Sauk Ps Upper has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 810 feet, ensuring efficient water release during peak flows. With its multi-arch core and rock foundation, Taum Sauk Ps Upper exemplifies engineering excellence in the realm of water resource management and climate resilience.

As a key component of Missouri's hydroelectric infrastructure, Taum Sauk Ps Upper stands as a testament to sustainable energy production and water resource management. With its impressive height, storage capacity, and hazard potential, this dam represents a vital piece of the region's infrastructure. Moving forward, continued inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures will be essential to ensure the safe and efficient operation of Taum Sauk Ps Upper for generations to come.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

6750

Dam Height

125

River Or Stream

East Fork Black River

Primary Dam Type

Roller-Compacted Concrete

Surface Area

54.5

Hydraulic Height

74

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

4350

Structural Height

94

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

125
       
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.