Howell Mine Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Howell Mine Dam, located in Shirley, Missouri, is a private earth dam completed in 1954 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 58 feet and stretching 1000 feet in length, this dam has a storage capacity of 1460 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 71 acres. The dam is situated on the Ishmael Branch of Hazel Creek and falls under the regulatory oversight of the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program in Missouri.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Howell Mine Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of November 2015, with inspections conducted every three years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 5800 cubic feet per second. While the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, no specific risk management measures are highlighted in the available data.

Overall, Howell Mine Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its historical significance, recreational purpose, and regulatory oversight. With its unique design and location, this dam serves as a valuable asset in the management of water resources in the Washington County area of Missouri.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

ISHMAEL BR HAZEL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Drainage Area

1180

Nid Storage

1460

Structural Height

58

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

58
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.