Dorsey Swearingin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Walter R Tompson Dam Mcrobert Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Dorsey Swearingin Dam, located in Scotland County, Missouri, is a privately owned structure completed in 1977 with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 25 feet and a length of 350 feet, this earth dam on the Middle Fabius River provides a storage capacity of 122 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 76 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial component for fire protection, stock watering, and grade stabilization in the region.
Managed by the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Dorsey Swearingin Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 15 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 36 cubic feet per second. Despite not being regulated or inspected by state agencies, this dam plays a vital role in supporting local ecosystems and wildlife habitats. With its location in a rural area and minimal associated structures, the dam serves as a key resource for water supply and conservation efforts in the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate activism will appreciate the significance of Dorsey Swearingin Dam in maintaining environmental balance and supporting diverse aquatic life. As a focal point for fish and wildlife conservation, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change and preserving natural ecosystems. With its strategic design and operational efficiency, Dorsey Swearingin Dam stands as a testament to the crucial role of dams in promoting biodiversity and safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIDDLE FABIUS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
123.97 |
Nid Storage |
122 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chariton River At Novinger
|
86cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Long Branch Creek Near Atlanta
|
0cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Salt River At Hagers Grove
|
8cfs |
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.
Dorsey Swearingin Dam