Polowniak Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Polowniak Dam, located in Sullivan, Missouri, along the Locust Creek, was completed in 1995 for the purpose of grade stabilization.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a structural height of 26 feet, with a length of 409 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 26 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 34 acre-feet, serving to control the flow of water in the area and mitigate potential flooding risks. The dam is classified as low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition assessment.
Despite being privately owned, Polowniak Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is subject to periodic inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The spillway, with a width of 10 feet, serves as an uncontrolled outlet for excess water, helping to prevent overtopping and potential dam failure. While the dam does not have associated locks or outlet gates, its strategic location and design make it a key component in the water management infrastructure of the region.
In the event of an emergency, it is important for local authorities and stakeholders to have an updated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place to coordinate response efforts. While the EAP status for Polowniak Dam is not specified in the data, ensuring that all necessary measures are in place to address any potential risks and hazards is essential. Overall, Polowniak Dam stands as a vital structure in the water resource management system of Missouri, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
409 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
LOCUST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
396.8 |
Nid Storage |
34 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Locust Creek Near Linneus
|
36cfs |
Medicine Creek Near Laredo
|
19cfs |
Chariton River At Novinger
|
102cfs |
Thompson River At Trenton
|
104cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Grand River Near Sumner
|
215cfs |
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.
Polowniak Dam