William E. Towell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

William E.


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Summary

Towell Dam, located in Dillon, Missouri, is a state-owned structure designed by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at 48 feet high and spans 1450 feet in length, with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities. The dam holds a normal storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet and is situated on a tributary of the Boubuese River, within Phelps County.

This significant water resource, managed by the DAM and Reservoir Safety Program, has a high hazard potential and undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting. Despite its age, the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk level of 3. With a spillway width of 200 feet and a maximum discharge of 6379 cubic feet per second, William E. Towell Dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, William E. Towell Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. Its strategic location, design features, and operational capacity make it an essential asset for both recreational use and water storage in the state of Missouri. With a history dating back to the 1960s, this dam continues to be a vital component of the local ecosystem, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management in sustainable water resource development.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1450

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF BOUBEUSE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Drainage Area

1540

Nid Storage

2490

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

48
       
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.