Bill Mcelwain Irrigation Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Powell Lake Dam Collins Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bill Mcelwain Irrigation Lake Dam, also known as Kent Powell Irrig.Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Bates, Missouri, specifically in the city of Papinsville.
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Summary
Completed in 1975, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 186 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 154 acre-feet. The dam has a height of 20 feet and a length of 2090 feet, with a surface area of 1.3 acres and a drainage area of 57.6 square miles.
Situated on TR-Mound Branch, this dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. While it is not state-regulated, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 30 feet, and there are no outlet gates or associated structures. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date and a risk management plan in place.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bill Mcelwain Irrigation Lake Dam offers a fascinating example of a private earth dam designed for irrigation purposes. Its construction in 1975 has provided essential water storage for the local area, with a storage capacity of 186 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to a moderate risk assessment, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With its unique characteristics and location in Bates, Missouri, this dam serves as a valuable asset for water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
2090 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MOUND BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
57.6 |
Nid Storage |
186 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bill Mcelwain Irrigation Lake Dam