Pony Express Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Pony Express Lake Dam, located in DeKalb, Missouri, is a state-owned earth dam completed in 1963 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a length of 1600 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-West Fork Lost Creek, the dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a moderate risk assessment score, Pony Express Lake Dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2007. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 200 feet and outlet gates in the form of slide (sluice gate). Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential flood control and recreational opportunities for the surrounding area, with a surface area of 164 acres and a drainage area of 2650 acres.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pony Express Lake Dam offers a fascinating example of a well-maintained state-owned structure that serves both recreational and safety purposes. With its historical significance and ongoing management by the state regulatory agency, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in Missouri.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK LOST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
164 |
Drainage Area |
2650 |
Nid Storage |
3560 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Pony Express Lake Dam