Forest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Forest Lake Dam, located in Holts Summit, Missouri, stands as a recreational haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Constructed in 1959, this earth dam with a buttress core type stretches 580 feet in length and reaches a height of 38 feet, creating a serene reservoir with a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet. The dam, nestled on Niemans Creek, serves as a vital water management infrastructure in Callaway County, Missouri.

Despite its primary purpose of recreation, Forest Lake Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam remains a crucial component in the local water resource ecosystem. The surrounding area, covering a surface area of 9 acres and draining from a 59-acre watershed, benefits from the dam's flood control capabilities and water storage for various activities.

Managed by a private owner, Forest Lake Dam exemplifies the collaboration between private entities and state regulatory agencies in maintaining water resource infrastructures. With a moderate risk assessment and regular inspection schedule, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while safeguarding the local community from potential hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Forest Lake Dam stands as a symbol of responsible dam management and environmental stewardship in Missouri.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

NIEMANS CREEK

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

59

Nid Storage

129

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

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.