Rothwell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Rothwell Lake Dam, located in Moberly, Missouri, was completed in 1902 and serves as a recreational and water supply resource.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 29 feet, has a storage capacity of 403 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 26 acres. It is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type and is situated on a tributary to Sweet Spring Creek.

Despite its historical significance, the dam has a high hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment. The last inspection took place in 1979, highlighting the need for updated safety measures and risk management protocols. The dam is owned by the local government and is not regulated at the state level, posing potential challenges for oversight and maintenance.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rothwell Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the maintenance and regulation of aging infrastructure. As a vital source of water supply and a popular recreational spot, the dam's condition and safety measures warrant closer attention to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the community. With a high hazard potential and limited state oversight, there is a pressing need for updated inspections and risk management measures to safeguard against potential disasters and ensure the long-term sustainability of this important water resource.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO SWEET SPRING CRK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Drainage Area

458

Nid Storage

403

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.