Upper Locust Creek L-300 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Upper Locust Creek L-300 is a flood risk reduction structure located in Putnam County, Missouri, along the TR-EAST FORK LOCUST CREEK.


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Summary

Built in 1994 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26.3 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 146 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 43 acre-feet and a drainage area of 160 acres, the dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the region.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment, Upper Locust Creek L-300 has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and no outlet gates. With a structural height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 26 feet, the dam spans a length of 500 feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres. While it has not been inspected recently, the structure is operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and is not regulated by the state of Missouri.

Upper Locust Creek L-300 plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the region, safeguarding nearby communities from potential inundation. As a key component of the local flood control infrastructure, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the USDA NRCS and the Rock Island District. With its strategic location and design, the dam continues to uphold its critical function in maintaining the safety and resilience of the surrounding area against natural disasters and extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

26.3

River Or Stream

TR-EAST FORK LOCUST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

146

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.