Elston Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elston Dam, located in Wappapello, Missouri, was completed in 1946 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This rockfill dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. With a normal storage of 47 acre-feet, the dam helps in maintaining water supply for various agricultural needs in the region. The dam is situated on the TR-Bluewater Creek, within the jurisdiction of Butler County.

Despite its low hazard potential, Elston Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. It is not regulated by the state and does not require permitting or inspection. The dam's purpose extends beyond irrigation to include fire protection, stock, small fish pond management, and recreation. Its location within a drainage area of 190 square miles makes it a vital resource for water management in the region.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate change can appreciate Elston Dam as a key infrastructure supporting local irrigation needs and water supply. Its historical significance, completion in the mid-20th century, and multi-purpose functionality make it a noteworthy structure within the St. Louis District. While its condition assessment remains unrated, the dam's role in sustaining agriculture and recreational activities in Butler County, Missouri, highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring such water resource facilities in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-BLUEWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

190

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.