Kelso Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Farley Dam Small-Small Road Structure
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Kelso Dam, located in Schuyler County, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1992 for grade stabilization along the TR-North Fabius River.
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Summary
With a height of 29 feet and a length of 310 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. Its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Kelso Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge of 10 cubic feet per second. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam's design with stone core and soil foundation ensures its structural integrity. The dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and protecting downstream areas from flooding, highlighting its importance in the local ecosystem and water resource conservation efforts.
While Kelso Dam does not have a designated emergency action plan or updated contact information, its operational efficiency and risk management measures have been deemed satisfactory. With its strategic location and construction for grade stabilization, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for water supply, irrigation, and environmental conservation in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Kelso Dam in maintaining the balance of the TR-North Fabius River ecosystem and mitigating potential risks associated with water management.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH FABIUS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
160 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Chariton River At Novinger
|
86cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
15cfs |
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.
Kelso Dam