Harold Kelly Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

The Harold Kelly Dam, located in Grundy, Missouri, serves as a crucial structure for grade stabilization along the TR-MEDICINE river.


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Summary

Constructed in 1995 by the USDA NRCS, this privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet with a hydraulic height of 24 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam plays a significant role in managing the water resources of the region.

The dam boasts a spillway width of 12 feet and a total length of 249 feet, contributing to its efficient water management capabilities. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service ensure its structural integrity and functionality for grade stabilization purposes. With a drainage area of 173 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, the Harold Kelly Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and managing water flow in the region.

Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment indicate its reliability in ensuring water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location on the TR-MEDICINE river and its capacity to store and manage water effectively, the Harold Kelly Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the state of Missouri.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

249

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-MEDICINE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

173

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.