Parole Mine Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Parole, Missouri, the Parole Mine Dam is a private-owned earth dam constructed in 1968 for recreational purposes along the Springtown Branch river.


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Summary

Standing at 64 feet in height and 870 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 71 acres. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2007 deemed it satisfactory, with inspections conducted every two years to ensure its safety.

Managed by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program in Missouri, the Parole Mine Dam is state-regulated and inspected regularly to meet safety standards. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled and has a maximum discharge capacity of 8320 cubic feet per second, serving as a recreational spot for the local community while also contributing to tailings management. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam remains under close monitoring to implement effective risk management measures and emergency action plans.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering feat of the Parole Mine Dam, as it combines recreational benefits with environmental responsibility. As a vital part of the local infrastructure in Washington County, Missouri, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. With its history dating back to the late 1960s, the Parole Mine Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing the power of water for both leisure and practical purposes.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

870

Dam Height

64

River Or Stream

SPRINGTOWN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Drainage Area

980

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

64

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

64
       
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.