Eaton Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Leadwood Tailings Dam Lac Emerald Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
The Eaton Tailings Dam in Leadwood, Missouri, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this privately owned dam spans 1,800 feet with a height of 58 feet, serving a critical purpose in regulating the flow of the TR-Big River. With a storage capacity of 8,900 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1,825 acres, the dam plays a pivotal role in flood control and water supply management in the region.
Despite its age, the Eaton Tailings Dam has been consistently regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state of Missouri to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2007, the dam poses moderate risk according to the latest evaluations. This underscores the importance of ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness in the face of changing climate patterns and potential natural disasters.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the details of the Eaton Tailings Dam, they uncover a complex infrastructure that marries engineering precision with environmental stewardship. From its uncontrolled spillway to its buttress core design, the dam embodies a delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human benefit and safeguarding against potential hazards. With constant monitoring and adherence to regulatory guidelines, the Eaton Tailings Dam stands as a beacon of responsible water resource management in the heart of Missouri's St. Francois County.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1800 |
Dam Height |
58 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
385 |
Drainage Area |
1825 |
Nid Storage |
8900 |
Structural Height |
58 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
58 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Eaton Tailings Dam