Gary Cochenour Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
The Gary Cochenour Dam, located in Scotland County, Missouri, was completed in 2000 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a structural height of 31 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 43 acre-feet. The dam spans 540 feet in length and is situated on TR-ALLEN CREEK, serving as a crucial water resource in the region.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is not currently regulated or inspected by the state authorities. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates, the Gary Cochenour Dam remains a vital structure for water management in the area. Although its condition remains unrated, the dam's construction and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight its importance in ensuring water availability for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Gary Cochenour Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing essential water storage for fire protection and agricultural needs underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns. With its strategic location on TR-ALLEN CREEK and its modest surface area of 7 acres, this dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies and private owners in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ALLEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
243.2 |
Nid Storage |
43 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Fox River At Wayland
|
8cfs |
Des Moines River At St. Francisville
|
1620cfs |
Wyaconda River Above Canton
|
13cfs |
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
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.
Gary Cochenour Dam