Spring Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Spring Lake Dam, located in YARROW, Missouri, on Elm Creek, was completed in 1948 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam is classified as an Earth dam with a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 936 acre-feet. Its hazard potential is rated as high, although its condition has not been formally assessed. The dam has not been inspected since August 1979, indicating a potential need for further evaluation and maintenance.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Spring Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area. With a surface area of 70 acres and a drainage area of 1,843 acres, the dam contributes to the local ecosystem and water resources. The surrounding Adair County landscape benefits from the dam's presence, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the significance of Spring Lake Dam, its historical importance and potential risks come into focus. With no recent inspections or condition assessments, there is a call for increased attention to ensure the dam's safety and functionality for both recreational and environmental purposes. Further research and monitoring may be necessary to safeguard this vital water resource in the heart of Missouri.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

70

Drainage Area

1843

Nid Storage

936

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.