John Cowan Dam
Key Takeaway
John Cowan Dam is classified as low hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 49% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 36 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 36 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 96 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 380 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| NID ID | MO40108 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
JOHN A COWAN
Private
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of John Cowan Dam?
John Cowan Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates John Cowan Dam?
John Cowan Dam is owned by JOHN A COWAN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was John Cowan Dam built?
John Cowan Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 John Cowan Dam?
John Cowan Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Grade Stabilization. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is John Cowan Dam?
John Cowan Dam has a dam height of 27 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.