Council Bluff Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Council Bluff Dam, located in Iron, Missouri, along the Big River, was completed in 1981 and is owned and operated by the Forest Service.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 112 feet and stretching 485 feet in length, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, including fish and wildlife pond activities. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam's spillway width of 250 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 27,300 cubic feet per second.

The dam, under the jurisdiction of the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, does not have any associated structures and is regulated solely by the Forest Service. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan is currently not prepared, raising concerns for effective management in case of emergencies. Despite its potential risks, Council Bluff Dam remains a vital resource for the surrounding community, offering recreational opportunities and contributing to the conservation of the local ecosystem along the Big River.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

485

Dam Height

112

River Or Stream

BIG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

112
       
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.