Tunnel Dam

Niangua River· Camden, Missouri· Built 1930· Gravity· 24 ft tall
Low Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Tunnel Dam is classified as low hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 24 ft (taller than 20.3% in MO)
Dam Length878 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage2.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.5K acre-ft
Surface Area360 acres
Drainage Area627 sq mi
Max Discharge62,000 cfs
Year Completed1930 (96 years old)
NID IDMO30205

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: June 15, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Sho-Me Power Corporation

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Tunnel Dam?

Tunnel 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 Tunnel Dam?

Tunnel Dam is owned by Sho-Me Power Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Tunnel Dam built?

Tunnel Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Tunnel Dam?

Tunnel Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Tunnel Dam?

Tunnel Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Tunnel Dam last inspected?

Tunnel Dam was last inspected on June 15, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.