Helmering Farms Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Helmering Farms Dam, located in Crawford County, Missouri, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the TR-Black Jack Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1952, this privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 37 acre-feet. The dam also supports multiple purposes including fire protection, stock or small fish pond, irrigation, and recreation, further highlighting its importance in the local community.
Despite its low hazard potential, Helmering Farms Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, signaling a need for further evaluation. The dam has not been inspected recently, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. Given its critical role in flood risk reduction and water resource management, it is essential for the owners and authorities to prioritize the safety and maintenance of this structure. Additionally, with no state regulation or enforcement in place, it becomes even more imperative for proactive measures to be taken to ensure the structural integrity of Helmering Farms Dam.
With a rich history dating back to the 1950s, Helmering Farms Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and supporting various community needs. As climate change intensifies and water resources become increasingly strained, the proper maintenance and management of structures like Helmering Farms Dam are essential for safeguarding communities and ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for the sustainable use and protection of these vital assets to ensure a resilient future for all.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK JACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
230 |
Nid Storage |
86 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Meramec River At Cook Station
|
47cfs |
Meramec River Near Steelville
|
244cfs |
Meramec River Near Sullivan
|
522cfs |
Bourbeuse River Near High Gate
|
2cfs |
Little Piney Creek At Newburg
|
82cfs |
Big River At Irondale
|
27cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Helmering Farms Dam
State Highway 49 Bridge Near Dillard, Missouri To Forest Boundary In Sections 13/24, T38N, R3W