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.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Big River At Irondale
|
27cfs |
Meramec River Near Sullivan
|
522cfs |
Big River Near Richwoods
|
221cfs |
Big River Below Desloge
|
59cfs |
Meramec River Near Steelville
|
244cfs |
East Fork Black River Nr Lesterville
|
19cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Brazil Creek Trailhead
|
||
Berryman
|
||
Berryman Campground
|
||
Hazel Creek Campground
|
||
Hazel Creek
|