Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S- 74 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S-74, located in Lewis County, Missouri, serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Long Branch river.


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Summary

Constructed in 1994 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches 540 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite its age, Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S-74 remains in good condition, though it has not been officially rated for its current state. With a history of minimal maintenance needs, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates contribute to its low risk profile. While it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, the dam continues to provide essential flood protection for the community of Ewing and the surrounding area, showcasing its importance as a key infrastructure asset in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S-74 presents an intriguing case study in effective flood risk management. With its modest size and purpose-built design, this dam exemplifies the successful collaboration between local government and federal agencies in safeguarding communities against potential water-related hazards. The dam's location on the Long Branch river underscores its critical role in protecting downstream areas, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in ensuring the resilience of our infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

LONG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

120

Nid Storage

61

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.