Sterling Hollow Reservoir Report
Nearby: John Foster Raikos Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sterling Hollow, also known as Sheeks, is a federal-owned earth dam located in Texas County, Missouri.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It stands at a height of 50 feet and stretches 420 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 10 acre-feet. Situated on the Middle Indian Creek, this dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management in the region. Despite its critical role in regulating water flow and storage, Sterling Hollow has been rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition based on recent assessments.
Managed by the Forest Service under the USDA FS, Sterling Hollow poses a significant risk due to its structural deficiencies and outdated inspection records. With a history of modification and a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a pressing need for improved risk management measures and emergency action planning. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, addressing the maintenance and safety of dams like Sterling Hollow is crucial for ensuring the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving hydrological conditions.
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
115 |
Nid Storage |
10 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Jacks Fork Near Mountain View
|
76cfs |
North Fork River Near Tecumseh
|
383cfs |
Jacks Fork At Alley Spring
|
135cfs |
Bryant Creek Near Tecumseh
|
219cfs |
Current River Above Akers
|
196cfs |
Jacks Fork At Eminence
|
260cfs |
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.
Sterling Hollow