Upper Locust Creek L- 79 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Upper Locust Creek L-79 is a flood risk reduction structure located in Putnam County, Missouri.


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Summary

Built in 1993 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28.3 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet and a drainage area of 105 acres, the dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-Upper Locust Creek.

Despite its low hazard potential, the condition of Upper Locust Creek L-79 is currently not rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and lacks outlet gates. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, it is important for local government agencies to ensure regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its functionality in managing flood risks. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, it is crucial for stakeholders to stay vigilant and prepared for potential emergencies.

Overall, Upper Locust Creek L-79 plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the region. As a key infrastructure managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, its presence contributes to the protection of nearby communities and water resources from the impacts of extreme weather events. By maintaining its integrity and implementing risk management measures, the dam continues to safeguard the surrounding area from potential flooding incidents.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

28.3

River Or Stream

TR-UPPER LOCUST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

105

Nid Storage

89

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.