Blue Springs Dam
Key Takeaway
Blue Springs Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1988 and is 38 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 70 ft (taller than 98.5% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 2,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 27.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 722 acres |
| Drainage Area | 33 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 24,639 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1988 (38 years old) |
| NID ID | MO12099 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Kansas City District
Federal Government
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High Hazard 84 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Blue Springs Dam?
Blue Springs Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Blue Springs Dam?
Blue Springs Dam is owned by USACE - Kansas City District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Blue Springs Dam built?
Blue Springs Dam was completed in 1988, making it 38 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Blue Springs Dam?
Blue Springs Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Blue Springs Dam?
Blue Springs Dam has a dam height of 70 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Blue Springs Dam last inspected?
Blue Springs Dam was last inspected on May 1, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.