Sommers Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Sommers Dam, located in Clark County, Missouri, is a privately owned structure completed in 1994 for the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the TR-FOX River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet, with a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 31 feet. It has a length of 254 feet and a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 89.6 square miles.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Sommers Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 10 feet, and there are no outlet gates or associated structures. The dam, constructed with a stone core and built on a soil foundation, has not been rated for its current condition, and the emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear. The dam's location in a rural area and its purpose of grade stabilization make it an important structure for managing water resources and climate impacts in the region.

Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts can find Sommers Dam to be a fascinating case study of a privately owned earth dam designed for grade stabilization purposes. Its construction in 1994 along the TR-FOX River in Missouri showcases the importance of maintaining infrastructure to mitigate potential risks and ensure water management efficiency. With a moderate risk assessment and a low hazard potential, this structure serves as a key component in the local watershed, providing storage capacity and flood control measures for the surrounding area.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

254

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-FOX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

89.6

Nid Storage

39

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.