Teter Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Teter Dam, located in Macon, Missouri, serves as a critical infrastructure for grade stabilization along the Middle Fork Chariton River.


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Summary

Built in 1998, this earth dam stands at a height of 28.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet. The dam spans a length of 440 feet and has a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 24 acre-feet.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Teter Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam provides essential flood protection and water storage for the surrounding community. The spillway, with a width of 10 feet, helps regulate water flow and prevent potential overflow during heavy rainfall events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Teter Dam serves as a fascinating example of how private infrastructure can have a significant impact on local water management. With its strategic location and design for grade stabilization, this earth dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water availability in Macon County. Its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to uphold the dam's functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

28.8

River Or Stream

MIDDLE FORK CHARITON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

35

Structural Height

26

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.