Rufkahr Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcgee Dam Braun Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Rufkahr Dam, located in Audrain County, Missouri, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for grade stabilization along the TR-LONG BRANCH river or stream.
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Summary
Completed in 2003, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 32 feet, providing storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is grade stabilization, serving to control water flow and prevent erosion in the area.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Rufkahr Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite not being regulated by the state or having regular inspections, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service ensure its structural integrity. The uncontrolled spillway and absence of outlet gates indicate a simplistic yet effective design for managing water discharge.
As a key infrastructure for water resource management in the area, Rufkahr Dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of private ownership and federal design expertise. Its location in Mexico, Missouri, and its impact on the surrounding drainage area of 153.6 square miles highlight its importance in mitigating flood risks and preserving the natural landscape. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Rufkahr Dam to be a fascinating example of sustainable engineering for grade stabilization and water storage purposes.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
153.6 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Rufkahr Dam