Council Bluff Dam
Key Takeaway
Council Bluff Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 112 ft (taller than 99.6% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 485 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Discharge | 27,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1981 (45 years old) |
| NID ID | MO31755 |
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
USDA FS
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Schnelle Lake Dam
Washington, MO
High Hazard 25 ftGudaitis Lake Dam
Washington, MO
High Hazard 25 ftPalmer Mine Dam
Washington, MO
High Hazard 76 ftBressie Lake(Too Small)
Washington, MO
Low Hazard 23 ftPodorski Lake Dam
Washington, MO
High Hazard 26 ftHowell Mine Dam
Washington, MO
High Hazard 58 ftMitchell Lake Dam
Iron, MO
Low Hazard 25 ftCasey Lake Dam
Washington, MO
High Hazard 36 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Council Bluff Dam?
Council Bluff 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 Council Bluff Dam?
Council Bluff Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Council Bluff Dam built?
Council Bluff Dam was completed in 1981, making it 45 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 Council Bluff Dam?
Council Bluff Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Council Bluff Dam?
Council Bluff Dam has a dam height of 112 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 Council Bluff Dam last inspected?
Council Bluff Dam was last inspected on April 25, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.