Water Works Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Water Works Lake Dam in Missouri, completed in 1870, stands as a crucial structure for recreation and water supply purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 337 acre-feet, this earth dam on a tributary to Sweet Spring Creek offers a surface area of 21 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Located in Randolph County, the dam has not been inspected since 1979, posing a high hazard potential.

Despite its age, Water Works Lake Dam remains a vital resource for the community of Moberly, serving as a popular spot for recreational activities and providing essential water supply. However, with no recent inspections or condition assessments, there is a need for updated risk assessments and emergency action plans to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. Climate enthusiasts and water resource specialists may find interest in monitoring the maintenance and future developments of this historic structure to prevent any potential hazards.

As a significant landmark in the area, Water Works Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the history of dam construction and water management in Missouri. With its primary purpose of recreation and water supply, the dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and community resilience. Continued monitoring and maintenance of this structure are essential to safeguarding its functionality and mitigating any potential risks associated with its aging infrastructure.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY TO SWEET SPRING CRK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Drainage Area

418

Nid Storage

337

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.