Sunnen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunnen Dam, located in Washington, Missouri, is a privately owned Earth dam constructed in 1948 primarily for recreational purposes along the Fourche A Renault river.


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Summary

With a height of 51 feet and a length of 1300 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 2540 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 5000 acre-feet. Its surface area covers 198 acres and it serves a drainage area of 17,182 acres, making it a significant water resource in the region.

Despite being privately owned, Sunnen Dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROGRAM of Missouri, ensuring that it meets necessary safety standards. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition according to a 2010 assessment. With a moderate risk level and an inspection frequency of 5 years, Sunnen Dam continues to be a vital component of the local water infrastructure, providing not only recreational opportunities but also contributing to flood control and water supply management for the surrounding area.

As an important Earth dam in the region, Sunnen Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Its controlled uncontrolled spillway and satisfactory condition demonstrate its commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. With a history dating back to 1948, Sunnen Dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water infrastructure in supporting both human activities and natural ecosystems in Missouri.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

FOURCHE A RENAULT

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

198

Drainage Area

17182

Nid Storage

5000

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

51
       
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.