Hugh M. Wallace Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kirby Rosier Dam Heck Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
The Hugh M.
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Summary
Wallace Dam, located in Nodaway, Missouri, along the Squaw Creek, is a privately owned structure completed in 2003 with a primary purpose of grade stabilization. Designed by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans 550 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and a drainage area of 204.8 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition and has not undergone recent inspections or emergency preparedness evaluations.
Owned by a private entity and situated in a picturesque location in Holt County, Missouri, the Hugh M. Wallace Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control along the Squaw Creek. With a spillway width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 40.26 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community. Although it lacks major associated structures and regulatory oversight, the dam's construction and design have been overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, ensuring its structural integrity and functionality.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Hugh M. Wallace Dam a fascinating engineering feat, balancing the need for grade stabilization with the natural dynamics of the Squaw Creek watershed. While the dam's condition assessment and emergency preparedness measures are currently lacking, its low hazard potential and moderate risk rating suggest a stable operational status. As a key component in the Kansas City District's water management system, this Earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of public and private entities in safeguarding the region's water resources.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
SQUAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
204.8 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nodaway River Near Graham
|
134cfs |
Tarkio River At Fairfax Mo
|
55cfs |
Missouri River At Rulo
|
26600cfs |
Nodaway River Near Burlington Jct
|
63cfs |
Big Nemaha River At Falls City
|
310cfs |
One Hundred And Two River At Maryville
|
6cfs |
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.
Hugh M. Wallace Dam