Dougherty Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Dougherty Dam, located in Gasconade, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1988 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at 34 feet high with a normal storage capacity of 159 acre-feet, the dam serves as a recreational spot for locals and tourists alike. Situated on a tributary to Third Creek, the dam offers a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Managed by the St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Dougherty Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in a "Not Rated" condition. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the dam provides essential water resource benefits to the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 255 acre-feet and a drainage area of 274 acres, Dougherty Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting wildlife habitat in the region.

Although lacking some state oversight, Dougherty Dam remains a vital recreational and water resource asset in the community. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Dougherty play a significant role in water management and conservation efforts. With its picturesque location and functional design, Dougherty Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TRIB TO THIRD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

274

Nid Storage

255

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.