Olson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Riley Dam Central Stone Co Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Olson Dam, located in Monroe County, Missouri, serves as a vital structure for grade stabilization along the Pooles Branch river.
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Summary
Built in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 6 acres and has a drainage area of 121.6 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been inspected or assessed for its condition, posing potential concerns for its long-term safety and maintenance.
The primary purpose of Olson Dam is to stabilize the grade along the river and prevent erosion, making it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the area. With a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge of 10 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to control water flow during peak periods. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam's design and construction reflect the importance of managing water resources effectively in a region prone to flooding and erosion. However, the lack of recent inspections and condition assessments raise questions about the dam's ongoing reliability and safety for both the community and the environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the impact of dams on local ecosystems and waterways, Olson Dam stands as a reminder of the critical role these structures play in managing flood risk and preserving water quality. With its location in a private ownership setting and limited regulatory oversight, there is a need for increased attention to the dam's maintenance and inspection practices to ensure its continued effectiveness and safety for the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
POOLES BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
121.6 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Olson Dam