Elaine Sykes Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Elaine Sykes Dam, located in Dawn, Missouri, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for grade stabilization along the TR-COTTONWOOD river stream.
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Summary
Completed in 2004, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, serving the purpose of grade stabilization. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to pose a manageable risk to the surrounding area.
Despite being privately owned, Elaine Sykes Dam is not regulated or inspected by the state authorities in Missouri. The dam has a unique spillway design with a width of 30 feet and no outlet gates. The structure has not undergone any modifications since its completion, and its condition assessment is currently not rated. Although the dam is considered to have a manageable risk level, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor its maintenance and operations to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in grade stabilization along the TR-COTTONWOOD river stream.
In the event of an emergency, it is important for stakeholders to be aware of the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) and its compliance with guidelines. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, it is essential for proper risk management measures to be in place to address any potential issues that may arise. Overall, Elaine Sykes Dam plays a significant role in the local water resource management system and serves as a valuable asset for grade stabilization in the Carroll County area of Missouri.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
412 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COTTONWOOD |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
217.6 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Shoal Creek Near Braymer Mo
|
0cfs |
Grand River At Chillicothe
|
361cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
39cfs |
Grand River Near Sumner
|
223cfs |
Missouri River At Waverly
|
27800cfs |
Crooked River Near Richmond
|
3cfs |
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.
Elaine Sykes Dam