Riechers Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Riechers Lake Dam, located in Rush Hill, Missouri, was completed in 1976 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 214 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 115 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, the dam has not been inspected or regulated by the state, indicating a potential need for increased monitoring and oversight to ensure its ongoing safety and effectiveness.

Situated along the TR-Littleby Creek in Audrain County, Missouri, Riechers Lake Dam is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type. The dam's structure spans 20 acres and serves a drainage area of 140 acres. While the dam does not feature a spillway or outlet gates, its strategic location and purpose for irrigation highlight its importance in water resource management in the region. As a key infrastructure for local agricultural activities, the dam's operations and maintenance should be closely monitored to mitigate any potential risks and ensure sustainable water usage in the area.

With its private ownership and limited state involvement, Riechers Lake Dam presents an opportunity for collaboration between stakeholders in the water resource and climate community. By enhancing monitoring protocols, conducting regular inspections, and implementing risk management measures, the dam can continue to support irrigation needs while safeguarding against potential hazards. As water enthusiasts and advocates for sustainable resource management, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and resilience of dams like Riechers Lake to protect both the environment and local communities that rely on these vital water sources.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLEBY CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

140

Nid Storage

214

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.