Desoto Mine Pit & Plant A Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Richwoods, Missouri, the Desoto Mine Pit & Plant A Dam, also known as the Desoto Mining Co.


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Summary

Pit and Plant A Dam, stands as a significant structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Built in 1980, this rockfill dam serves primarily for tailings purposes, with a structural height of 78 feet and a length of 3700 feet. The dam's maximum storage capacity reaches 3700 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 2670 acre-feet and a surface area of 180 acres.

Managed by a private owner, the Desoto Mine Pit & Plant A Dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri. The dam poses a high hazard potential, yet its condition assessment remains satisfactory as of December 2007. With a drainage area of 455 square miles and a tributary of Ditch Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the region. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam's inspection frequency is set at 3 years, showcasing a commitment to safety and maintenance.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

3700

Dam Height

78

River Or Stream

TRIB-DITCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

180

Drainage Area

455

Nid Storage

3700

Structural Height

78

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

78
       
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.