Lost Creek #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Lost Creek #1, also known as Lost Creek Watershed Site #1 Dam, is a crucial structure in Lincoln, Missouri, owned by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans a length of 788 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along Lost Creek. With a storage capacity of 669 acre-feet and a drainage area of 678 square miles, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Located in Elsberry, Missouri, Lost Creek #1 has a spillway width of 90 feet and a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment in 2007 deemed it satisfactory. The dam's maximum discharge capacity reaches 5,495 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective flood control measures. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Lost Creek #1 remains a key infrastructure for water resource management in the area, regulated and inspected by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program to guarantee public safety and environmental protection.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Lost Creek #1 as a critical flood risk reduction structure in Lincoln County, Missouri. With a history dating back to the mid-20th century, this Earth-type dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices in the region. Its strategic location along Lost Creek, with a storage capacity of 669 acre-feet and a drainage area of 678 square miles, highlights its importance in safeguarding the local community against potential flooding events. The dam's high hazard potential underscores the need for careful monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

788

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

LOST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

678

Nid Storage

669

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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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.