Only Way Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cott Lake Dam Summers Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Only Way Lake Dam, located in Gilliam, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1930 for purposes of recreation and other activities.
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Summary
With a height of 21 feet and a storage capacity of 348 acre-feet, the dam is situated on TR-Bear Creek, within the Kansas City District. Despite being designated as a high hazard potential structure, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," with the last inspection conducted in 1979.
The dam does not fall under state regulation or permitting, and has not been inspected or enforced by state agencies. Furthermore, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising concerns about the safety and management of the structure. With the potential risks associated with a high hazard dam and the lack of recent assessments or emergency preparedness measures, there is a pressing need for updated inspections and risk management strategies to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and water resources.
Given the age of construction and the potential consequences of dam failure, it is essential for stakeholders to take proactive measures towards ensuring the structural integrity and safety of Only Way Lake Dam. With a focus on risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and regular inspections, steps can be taken to mitigate hazards and protect the downstream area from potential flooding. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for proper management and maintenance of dams like Only Way Lake to safeguard both the environment and the community.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31 |
Drainage Area |
435 |
Nid Storage |
348 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Glasgow
|
28400cfs |
Blackwater River At Blue Lick
|
25cfs |
Mussel Fork Near Musselfork
|
12cfs |
Missouri River At Boonville
|
29900cfs |
Missouri River At Waverly
|
26800cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
8cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Stump Island Park
|
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Arrow Rock State Park
|
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Van Meter State Park
|
Only Way Lake Dam