Old Viburnum Tailings Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Old Viburnum Tailings Dam #1, located in Iron County, Missouri, is a privately-owned structure built in 1968 for tailings storage purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 115 feet with a length of 1140 feet, this dam holds a storage capacity of 3600 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 93 acres. It is regulated by the state and has undergone inspections, with a high hazard potential but deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2007.

The dam is situated near Courtois Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment remains satisfactory, with a regular inspection frequency of every two years. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation in case of a dam failure, highlighting the importance of proper management and risk assessment for this critical water resource structure.

With the potential to impact both the environment and local communities in the event of a breach, Old Viburnum Tailings Dam #1 serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilant monitoring and maintenance of dams and reservoirs. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to stay informed about the condition and management of such structures to promote safety and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1140

Dam Height

115

River Or Stream

COURTOIS CREEK

Surface Area

93

Drainage Area

1970

Nid Storage

3600

Structural Height

115

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

115
       
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.