Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S- 78 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S- 78, located in Ewing, Missouri, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the Long Branch river.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a structural height of 41 feet, completed in 1994 to provide a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 820 acres and a spillway width of 30 feet, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, prompting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The last inspection conducted in 1999 revealed that the dam was in good condition, although it has not been assessed since. With no outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam relies on natural processes to manage water discharge during high flow events. While there are no associated structures or emergency action plans in place, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the local community.
Overall, Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S- 78 is an integral part of the water resource management system in Lewis County, Missouri. With its modest size and moderate risk level, this earth dam provides essential protection against potential flooding while also supporting fire protection, stock use, and fish and wildlife habitats. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like S- 78 becomes increasingly critical in ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the face of climate-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
820 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fabius River Near Taylor
|
12cfs |
Wyaconda River Above Canton
|
13cfs |
North River At Palmyra
|
21cfs |
Salt River Near Shelbina
|
30cfs |
Bear Creek Near Marcelline
|
5cfs |
Bear Creek At Hannibal
|
2cfs |
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.
Troublesome Creek Watershed Dam S- 78