Taum Sauk Ps Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Taum Sauk Ps Lower is a gravity dam located in Lesterville, Missouri, along the East Fork Black River.


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Summary

Built in 1963 by SVERDRUP & PARCEL ENGR CO, this hydroelectric structure stands at 60 feet tall with a length of 390 feet, providing a storage capacity of 6350 acre-feet and a surface area of 400 acres. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, making it a vital resource in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Taum Sauk Ps Lower has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 130,000 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 390 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.

As a key infrastructure for water storage and energy production, Taum Sauk Ps Lower highlights the intersection of water resources and climate considerations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both safety and sustainability, ensuring that they continue to support the needs of the community while mitigating potential risks associated with changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

East Fork Black River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

400

Drainage Area

88

Nid Storage

6350

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

60
       
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.