Bayless Taylor Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bayless Taylor Dam, also known as Taylor Bayless Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Bollinger, Missouri, along the Virgin Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this Earth-type dam stands at 21 feet high and spans 500 feet in length, with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 103 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 8.8 acres and draining an area of 332.8 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating the need for proactive risk management measures. The dam's condition is currently not rated, with its last inspection dating back to May 1979. While the dam has not been modified over the years and lacks certain safety features such as outlet gates and Emergency Action Plans, it remains a significant structure for wildlife conservation and recreational activities in the area. With a controlled spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 288 cubic feet per second, Bayless Taylor Dam continues to play a key role in managing water resources and supporting the local ecosystem.

As an essential part of the Memphis District in Missouri, Bayless Taylor Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. Its association with the Virgin Creek and its role in providing habitat for fish and wildlife highlight the interconnectedness of dams with environmental conservation efforts. While the dam's risk assessment suggests the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance, its contribution to recreational activities and wildlife preservation underscores the significance of such structures in balancing human needs with ecological sustainability.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

VIRGIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.8

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

332.8

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

Bayless Taylor DamCastor River at Zalma Preview Castor River At Zalma
281.0cfs
281cfs
Bayless Taylor DamSt. Francis River at Wappapello Preview St. Francis River At Wappapello
691.0cfs
691cfs
Bayless Taylor DamSt. Francis River near Patterson Preview St. Francis River Near Patterson
220.0cfs
220cfs
Bayless Taylor DamSt. Francis River near Saco Preview St. Francis River Near Saco
171.0cfs
171cfs
Bayless Taylor DamLittle St. Francis River at Fredericktown Preview Little St. Francis River At Fredericktown
1.1cfs
1cfs
Bayless Taylor DamLittle River Ditch No. 1 near Morehouse Preview Little River Ditch No. 1 Near Morehouse
152.0cfs
152cfs

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.
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