South Fork Blackwater River Dam A- 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

South Fork Blackwater River Dam A-3, located in Kingsville, Missouri, was completed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure in the region.


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Summary

With a height of 25 feet and a length of 610 feet, this earth dam on the TR-W Reach S.Fk.Blckwtr river is designed to hold a maximum storage capacity of 341 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 37 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition or undergone recent inspections.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet, and no outlet gates or associated locks. While it is not regulated or permitted by the state, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area, especially during times of heavy rainfall or flooding events. Its stone core and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, while its location in Johnson County, Missouri, adds to its importance for local residents and wildlife along the South Fork Blackwater River.

Although this dam may not be as high-profile as others in the region, its significance in flood risk reduction and water resource management cannot be understated. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and water availability, structures like South Fork Blackwater River Dam A-3 will play an increasingly crucial role in protecting communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. Its design, purpose, and location make it a key component of the region's water infrastructure, deserving of attention and support from water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-W REACH S.FK.BLCKWTR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

6.4

Nid Storage

341

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.