Morris Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Morris Dam, located in Macon County, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1998 for grade stabilization along Brush Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 24.3 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, the dam spans 340 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is grade stabilization, with a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 16.1 cubic feet per second.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Morris Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. Although it is not regulated or inspected by the state, the dam serves as a key structure in controlling drainage and ensuring water storage for the surrounding area. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, indicating the need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures to be implemented in the future.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Morris Dam in New Cambria, Missouri, they can appreciate its role in maintaining the stability of Brush Creek while also recognizing the importance of regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital infrastructure. The dam's significance in grade stabilization and water storage highlights the interconnectedness of human engineering with natural ecosystems, underscoring the ongoing need for responsible management of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

24.3

River Or Stream

BRUSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.