Bright Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Bright Dam, located in Monroe County, Missouri, was completed in 1994 for the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the TR-ELK FORK river.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at 28 feet in height, with a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 27 feet. It has a length of 450 feet and a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, serving as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating.
Despite being unregulated by the state, Bright Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet and a drainage area of 332.8 square miles. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 11 feet and no outlet gates. Although it has not been rated for its condition assessment, the risk management measures in place suggest a proactive approach to ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.
With its strategic location and design, Bright Dam serves as a vital component in the local water resource management system, contributing to grade stabilization and flood control efforts along the TR-ELK FORK river. As a noteworthy example of private infrastructure, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners and governmental agencies in safeguarding the environment and communities from potential water-related risks.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELK FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
332.8 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Bright Dam
Southfork Boat Ramp