Upper Locust Creek W- 48 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Upper Locust Creek W- 48 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Putnam County, Missouri, specifically in Browning.
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Summary
Built in 1993 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 21.4 feet, with a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 32 feet. The dam spans 533 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 980 acres along the TR-West Fork Locust Creek.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Upper Locust Creek W- 48 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. Despite not being state-regulated, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 40 feet, helps manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall, ensuring the safety and security of the area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Upper Locust Creek W- 48 in managing flood risks and protecting communities. The collaboration between local government and federal agencies, such as the USDA NRCS, in designing and constructing this dam highlights the commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region. With its strategic location and effective design, this dam stands as a testament to proactive measures taken to mitigate flood risks and safeguard the environment and its inhabitants.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
533 |
Dam Height |
21.4 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK LOCUST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
980 |
Nid Storage |
109 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Upper Locust Creek W- 48