Jones Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Jones Dam, located in Keytesville, Missouri, along the Mussel Fork River, was completed in 1997 with a primary purpose of grade stabilization.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 23.8 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 69 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 172.8 square miles. With a surface area of 4 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and controlling flood risk in the region.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Jones Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and maintain the structure to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risk and protecting the surrounding environment. With a spillway width of 12 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam is designed to handle maximum discharges of up to 9 cubic feet per second, highlighting its importance in managing water flow and maintaining safety for local communities.

As part of the Rock Island District, Jones Dam's role in regulating water flow and providing grade stabilization along the Mussel Fork River is integral to the region's water management strategies. While the dam has not been inspected or assessed for condition recently, its operational history and design features demonstrate its significance in safeguarding against flooding events and supporting sustainable water resource management practices in Chariton County, Missouri.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

821

Dam Height

23.8

River Or Stream

MUSSEL FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

172.8

Nid Storage

69

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.