Mechlin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Mechlin, a privately owned dam located in Howard, Missouri, was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1999.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet, with a hydraulic height of 31 feet and a structural height of 37 feet. With a length of 350 feet, Mechlin has a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet and serves various purposes beyond flood control or water supply.

Despite its low hazard potential, Mechlin has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 due to its uncontrolled spillway type and lack of inspection and emergency preparedness measures. Situated in the Kansas City District and falling under the jurisdiction of the state of Missouri, this dam plays a role in managing the drainage area of 358.4 square miles. Its condition remains unrated, and there are no records of recent inspections or emergency action plans in place. For enthusiasts of water resource management and climate resilience, Mechlin presents an intriguing case study to explore the complexities of dam infrastructure and risk mitigation strategies.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

33

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

358.4

Nid Storage

25

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.