Griffith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bud Lancaster Dam Fremon Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Griffith Dam, located in Memphis, Missouri, serves as a crucial structure for grade stabilization along the South Fork of the North Fabius River.
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Summary
Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans a length of 357 feet. With a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet, it primarily supports purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance in addition to its grade stabilization function.
Despite its low hazard potential, Griffith Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) and has not been rated for its current condition. The dam boasts an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and no outlet gates. Owned privately, this dam falls outside state jurisdiction and regulation, posing potential challenges in terms of inspection and enforcement. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Griffith Dam's design and purpose intriguing, as it plays a vital role in managing water resources and supporting local ecosystems in the region.
Although Griffith Dam is not under federal ownership or funding, its significance lies in its role in maintaining water levels and supporting various activities in the area. As an earth dam with a stone core, its construction and design are tailored to its specific purposes and surroundings. While its risk assessment suggests a moderate level of concern, the dam continues to function effectively, providing essential benefits to the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
357 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-S. FK. OF N. FABIUS R. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
120 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Chariton River At Novinger
|
74cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
14cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
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.
Griffith Dam