Hickory Creek Watershed Structure H- 1a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the Hickory Creek Watershed in Newton, Missouri, Structure H-1a is a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 2003.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and spans 1900 feet, with a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet. Serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Structure H-1a plays a key role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation during high-flow events.

With a Hazard Potential rating of High and a Risk Assessment of Moderate, this structure requires regular inspections every three years to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. The uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates provide essential discharge mechanisms in times of excess water flow, helping to prevent overtopping and potential dam failure. Despite being in operation for almost two decades, the condition assessment of Structure H-1a remains "Not Rated," highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity.

As a vital component of the flood management system in the Hickory Creek Watershed, Structure H-1a stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government and federal agencies in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events. With its strategic location and design features, this structure serves as a critical line of defense in protecting residents and infrastructure from the devastating effects of flooding, showcasing the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

1900

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-HICKORY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

44.8

Nid Storage

109

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.