Ward Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Scurlock Dam Quentin Lewis Farm Pond
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ward Dam, located in Schuyler County, Missouri, serves primarily for grade stabilization along TR-BRUSH CREEK.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1991, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 21 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, Ward Dam plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock watering, and maintaining a small fish pond in the area.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Ward Dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in moderate condition. With uncontrolled spillways and no outlet gates, the dam's risk assessment stands at a moderate level. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it is important to note that emergency action plans have not been prepared or updated, raising potential concerns for the management of any unforeseen incidents.
In the event of a dam failure, it is crucial for the owners to address the lack of emergency preparedness measures and ensure that risk management strategies are put in place. As Ward Dam continues to support various purposes in the area, it is essential to prioritize the safety and maintenance of this structure to prevent any potential risks to the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
239 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BRUSH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Chariton River At Novinger
|
86cfs |
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.
Ward Dam