Davis Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Davis Lake Dam, located in Howard County, Missouri, is a private-owned structure completed in 1962 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at 35 feet tall and stretches over 1050 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 895 acre-feet. It is classified as an earth dam with stone core type and rock foundation, contributing to a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment.

With a drainage area of 361 square miles and a surface area of 54 acres, Davis Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the tributary of Adams Fork. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 20 cubic feet per second and a normal storage level of 398 acre-feet. The dam is subject to state regulations, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts would be fascinated by the role Davis Lake Dam plays in balancing water supply and demand in the region. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards. With its strategic location and recreational significance, Davis Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of dam infrastructure in sustaining ecosystems and supporting local communities in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF ADAMS FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54

Drainage Area

361

Nid Storage

895

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

35
       
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.