Ruth Brill Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Ruth Brill Dam, located in Howard County, Missouri, stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the USDA NRCS in its design and construction in the year 2000.
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Summary
This privately owned Earth dam serves a primary purpose that goes beyond traditional water resource management, with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment indicating its critical importance in the region. The dam boasts a height of 28 feet and a hydraulic height of 21 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 29 acre-feet.
Situated on the TR-UNNAMED river or stream, Ruth Brill Dam spans 325 feet in length, with a controlled spillway width of 10 feet. Despite its relatively small surface area of 1 acre, the dam plays a vital role in managing the drainage area of 70.4 square miles and can discharge up to 12.95 cubic feet per second during peak flow events. With its stone core and rock-soil foundations, the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion, and its condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in 2000.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ruth Brill Dam presents a unique case study in private dam ownership and management. While it may not fall under state regulation or inspection, the dam's critical role in flood control and water storage cannot be understated. With its strategic location in Rochport, Missouri, the dam serves as a symbol of sustainable water resource management and the importance of private-public partnerships in safeguarding our natural ecosystems in the face of an ever-changing climate.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-UNNAMED |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
70.4 |
Nid Storage |
29 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Katy Roundhouse CG
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Katy Roundhouse Campground
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Finger Lakes State Park
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Ruth Brill Dam