Bear Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bear Lake Dam, located in Buchanan, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earthen dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans a length of 560 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Platte River, the dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in 2007.

Managed by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG under the jurisdiction of the state of Missouri, Bear Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 45 feet, and no outlet gates. Despite its age, Bear Lake Dam continues to serve as a recreational hub for locals and visitors, offering a serene environment for various water-based activities. As a vital part of the local ecosystem, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water resources and climate in the area.

With its serene location and important role in water resource management, Bear Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the significance of this structure, they can appreciate the balance it strikes between providing recreational opportunities and ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment. The ongoing maintenance and regulation of Bear Lake Dam underscore the importance of responsible stewardship in preserving our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-PLATTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

55

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.