Upper Valle Mines Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Valle Mines Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is tailings. 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 | 34 ft (taller than 82.3% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 291 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 142 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 160 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30370 |
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
VALLE MINING COMPANY
Private
Nearby Dams
Lower Valle Mines Dam
Jefferson, MO
High Hazard 22 ftLucas Lake Dam
Jefferson, MO
High Hazard 25 ftSunrise Big Lake Dam
Jefferson, MO
High Hazard 38 ftSilver Lake Dam
St. Francois, MO
Low Hazard 25 ftLittle Lake Dam
Jefferson, MO
High Hazard 32 ftSunrise Lake Upper Dam
Jefferson, MO
High Hazard 37 ftForest Lake Dam
St. Francois, MO
High Hazard 30 ftValle Lake Dam
Jefferson, MO
High Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Valle Mines Dam?
Upper Valle Mines 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 Upper Valle Mines Dam?
Upper Valle Mines Dam is owned by VALLE MINING COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Valle Mines Dam built?
Upper Valle Mines Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Upper Valle Mines Dam?
Upper Valle Mines Dam serves the following purposes: Tailings. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Valle Mines Dam?
Upper Valle Mines Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Upper Valle Mines Dam last inspected?
Upper Valle Mines Dam was last inspected on August 15, 1980. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.