Richards Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 5, 2026
Richards Dam, located in Clines Island, Missouri, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife pond management, grade stabilization, and recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1995, the earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, with a length of 268 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres, serving a drainage area of 57.6 square miles.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Richards Dam is considered to have moderate risk, with a maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and the last inspection was conducted in January 1981. While no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared for the dam, it is important to monitor and manage the associated risks to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Richards Dam to be an intriguing site for further exploration and study, given its unique design and purpose in the Missouri landscape.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
268 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WILLIAMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
57.6 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River Ditch No. 1 Near Morehouse
|
105cfs |
Castor River At Zalma
|
169cfs |
St. Francis River At Wappapello
|
245cfs |
Mississippi River At Thebes
|
91700cfs |
Black River At Poplar Bluff
|
562cfs |
St. Francis River Near Patterson
|
235cfs |
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.
Richards Dam