Dunn And Swearingen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Bible Grove, Missouri, the Dunn and Swearingen Dam is a private earth dam completed in 1944 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 32 feet, with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 31 feet. It spans 368 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 57 acre-feet.

The dam is situated on the TR-S. FK Middle Fabius River and is under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment. While it does not have a designated emergency action plan in place, it serves as a vital resource for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the surrounding area. Overall, the Dunn and Swearingen Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Missouri.

Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the Dunn and Swearingen Dam remains a key structure for maintaining water levels and providing essential functions for the local community. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam serves as a reliable source for water storage and protection against potential flooding events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance and potential risks associated with dams like Dunn and Swearingen is essential for ensuring sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

368

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-S. FK MIDDLE FABIUS R.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

19.2

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.