Ashley Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ashley Branch Dam, located in Bourbon, Missouri, stands as a vital structure for water resource management and recreational activities.


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Summary

Built in 1986, this earth dam spans a length of 1070 feet and reaches a height of 58 feet. It primarily serves the purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 105 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 1970 acre-feet. The dam regulates the flow of Ashley Branch Creek, with a drainage area of 4400 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 20817 cubic feet per second.

Maintained by a private entity, Ashley Branch Dam is subject to state regulation and oversight by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition according to a 2007 assessment. Regular inspections are conducted every three years, with the last inspection taking place in July 2016. The dam's emergency action plan is up-to-date, although its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Ashley Branch Dam to be a fascinating structure that not only plays a crucial role in water management but also provides opportunities for recreational activities in the picturesque surroundings of Washington County, Missouri. The dam's history, design features, and regulatory framework offer valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure development, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the realm of water resource management.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

ASHLEY BRANCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

105

Drainage Area

4400

Nid Storage

1970

Structural Height

58

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

58
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.