Valley Water Mills Dam
Key Takeaway
Valley Water Mills Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 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 | 21 ft (taller than 13.3% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Buttress |
| Max Storage | 191 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 138 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,200 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | MO20035 |
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
SPRINGFIELD CITY UTILITI
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Valley Water Mills Dam?
Valley Water Mills 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 Valley Water Mills Dam?
Valley Water Mills Dam is owned by SPRINGFIELD CITY UTILITI (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Valley Water Mills Dam built?
Valley Water Mills Dam was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Valley Water Mills Dam?
Valley Water Mills Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Valley Water Mills Dam?
Valley Water Mills Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Valley Water Mills Dam last inspected?
Valley Water Mills Dam was last inspected on June 6, 1979. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.