Forest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Forest Lake Dam, located in Wright City, Missouri, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, this earth dam with a stone core stands at a height of 38 feet and stretches for 640 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 380 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the tributary of Indian Camp Creek and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program in Missouri, Forest Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With a hazard potential rated as high but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk, prompting regular inspections every three years. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities and maintain its vital role in the local water resource management system.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic location and design of Forest Lake Dam, which not only offers recreational benefits but also plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 73 feet, allows for controlled discharge during periods of high water flow. As a key infrastructure in Warren County, Missouri, Forest Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and oversight in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TRIB-INDIAN CAMP CREEK

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

490

Nid Storage

380

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.