Betty Francis Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Betty Francis is a privately-owned earth dam located in Fredricktown, Missouri, along the TR-Piney Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1999 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 340 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, with a primary focus on flood control and water resource management in the area.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Betty Francis plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding and managing water flow in the region. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the dam remains in good condition, with a structural height of 29 feet and a hydraulic height of 24 feet. Its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates indicate a simple yet effective design that has proven to be reliable since its completion.

Located within the St. Louis District and surrounded by a drainage area of 275.2 square miles, Betty Francis stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management. Its presence contributes to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem and highlights the collaborative efforts between private owners and federal agencies in safeguarding communities against potential water-related risks.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-PINEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.8

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

275.2

Nid Storage

68

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.