Wappapello Dam - Saddle Dike 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wappapello Dam - Saddle Dike 2, located in Wayne County, Missouri, is a crucial federal infrastructure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1941, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 114 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,134,600 acre-feet. Primarily serving for flood risk reduction, the dam also supports recreational activities in the area.

With a significant hazard potential, Wappapello Dam is continuously monitored and maintained by the USACE to mitigate flood risks and ensure its structural integrity. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated, and the agency collaborates with local emergency managers to develop evacuation plans and raise public awareness. Despite the dam's risk management measures, severe weather events can still pose challenges, prompting controlled water releases to manage reservoir levels and relieve pressure on the structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of Wappapello Dam - Saddle Dike 2 in flood risk reduction and its ongoing risk management efforts is vital. The dam's impact on the St. Francis River system underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure the safety and resilience of communities downstream.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

465

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

ST. FRANCIS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23200

Hydraulic Height

103

Drainage Area

1310

Nid Storage

1134600

Structural Height

114

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

114
       
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.