Ford Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Ford Dam, located in Livonia, Missouri, along the TR-Chariton River, was completed in 1991 and serves as a crucial structure for grade stabilization.
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Summary
This private earth dam, with a height of 30 feet and a length of 275 feet, plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. With a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet and a drainage area of 38.4 square miles, Ford Dam helps regulate water flow and mitigate flood risks in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Ford Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and no outlet gates. While it has not undergone recent inspections, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unknown. Ford Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the impacts of climate change on water infrastructure, Ford Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the role of dams in maintaining water quality and quantity. With its primary purpose of grade stabilization and its strategic location in Schuyler County, Missouri, Ford Dam highlights the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding communities and ecosystems. As efforts to address climate change intensify, Ford Dam stands as a symbol of the ongoing challenges and opportunities in managing water resources for a sustainable future.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHARITON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
38.4 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Ford Dam