Ruth Shirley Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Ruth Shirley Dam, located in Carrollton, Missouri, was completed in 1994 and serves primarily for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a height of 25.6 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 28 feet. With a storage capacity of 29 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 190 cubic feet per second, the dam overlooks the Bee Branch river.
Although Ruth Shirley Dam is classified with a low hazard potential, it still poses a moderate risk, according to a risk assessment rating of 3. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared or last revised. With a spillway width of 20 feet and no outlet gates, the dam measures 416 feet in length and covers a surface area of 1 acre.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Ruth Shirley Dam may find its unique design and purpose intriguing, as it caters to both practical needs, such as fire protection, and recreational interests, like stocking fish. The dam's location in Carrollton, Missouri, within the Rock Island District, adds to its appeal for those interested in exploring different water management structures and their impact on the local environment. Given its moderate risk rating and lack of certain safety measures, there is potential for further research and assessment to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of Ruth Shirley Dam.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
416 |
Dam Height |
25.6 |
River Or Stream |
BEE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
29 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
39cfs |
Shoal Creek Near Braymer Mo
|
0cfs |
Grand River At Chillicothe
|
361cfs |
Missouri River At Waverly
|
27800cfs |
Crooked River Near Richmond
|
3cfs |
Grand River Near Sumner
|
223cfs |
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.
Ruth Shirley Dam