Watts Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Watts Dam, located in Macon, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 2006 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

It serves the primary purpose of grade stabilization along the TR-Saling Branch river or stream. With a dam height of 21 feet and a hydraulic height of 19 feet, Watts Dam has a maximum storage capacity of 99.1 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 58.4 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 9 acres and draining an area of 173 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Watts Dam lacks certain regulatory and inspection mechanisms, such as state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. While the dam's condition is currently unrated, its risk management measures and emergency action plan status remain unknown. Watts Dam presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study the impact of privately owned dams on local ecosystems and water management practices in the St. Louis District.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

912

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-SALING BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

173

Nid Storage

99.1

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.