Epperson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Epperson Dam, located in Pike, Missouri, along the Little Peno Creek, was completed in 1994 with a primary purpose of grade stabilization.


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Summary

This private-owned dam stands at a height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 27 feet. Its earth-type construction with a stone core rests on a soil foundation and spans a length of 465 feet, providing a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and a drainage area of 262.4 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Epperson Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, with a maximum discharge capacity of 113 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 14 feet. The dam's surface area covers 7 acres, serving as a vital component for managing water resources in the area. While it has not been rated for condition assessment, the dam has not been inspected recently, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and functionality for grade stabilization along the Little Peno Creek.

Managed by the St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Epperson Dam plays a crucial role in the local water management system, contributing to flood control and water supply regulation. Its presence serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure to mitigate risks and ensure the sustainable use of water resources in the region. With its strategic location and design features, Epperson Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing nature's resources while also highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance in the face of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

465

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

LITTLE PENO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

262.4

Nid Storage

24

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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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.