Snyder Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Snyder Dam, located in Adair, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1991 for the primary purpose of grade stabilization along Walnut Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 34 feet and stretching 240 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 160 acres. Despite its modest size, Snyder Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing erosion in the surrounding area.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, Snyder Dam is considered to be in good condition and poses minimal risk to the downstream community. Although the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, it is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and lacks outlet gates. While no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared for this structure, it meets regulatory guidelines and has not required any major modifications since its completion. Overall, Snyder Dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining water quality and protecting the local environment in the region.

Managed by the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Snyder Dam is an essential component of the infrastructure that supports the community of Elmer. As a key feature of the watershed, it helps regulate water levels, mitigate flood risks, and ensure the sustainability of the local ecosystem. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Snyder Dam for its significant role in maintaining the balance of water resources and protecting the environment in Adair County, Missouri.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

42

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.