Dennis Pierson Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Dennis Pierson is a privately owned Earth dam located in Nodaway, Missouri, along the Long Branch river.
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Summary
Built in 1999 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam serves purposes beyond mere water retention, indicating potential ecological or recreational uses.
Although not state-regulated, Dennis Pierson is situated within the Kansas City District and falls under the jurisdiction of the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and no outlet gates. Despite not being inspected or assessed for condition, the dam poses a low risk due to its design and the surrounding environment. The presence of emergency preparedness measures and the absence of associated structures or locks further characterize Dennis Pierson as a straightforward and reliable water resource.
Overall, Dennis Pierson stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of private landowners and federal agencies in managing water resources in Missouri. Its construction and function exemplify the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in mitigating risks and ensuring the efficient use of natural resources. As a key element in the local watershed, this dam plays a vital role in maintaining a stable water supply and protecting against potential hazards, making it a valuable asset for the region's water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
345 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
102.4 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Dennis Pierson