Swan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Swan Lake Dam, located in Chariton, Missouri, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Built in 1937 by the Bureau of Biological Survey, this Earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 8685 feet, with a storage capacity of 14862 acre-feet. The dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the Tough Branch river, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2016.
The dam features a slide (sluice gate) outlet and has undergone structural modifications in 1994. Despite not being regulated by the state, the Fish and Wildlife Service handles all aspects of the dam, including funding, design, construction, inspections, and operations. With no associated structures and a drainage area of 7.5 square miles, Swan Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting wildlife in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Swan Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human-built infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts. From its humble beginnings as a fish and wildlife pond to its modern-day role in providing habitat and water storage, this dam represents a harmonious blend of nature and engineering. With its historical significance and ongoing commitment to wildlife preservation, Swan Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.
Years Modified |
1994 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
8685 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Tough Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
7.5 |
Nid Storage |
14862 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Grand River Near Sumner
|
220cfs |
Mussel Fork Near Musselfork
|
12cfs |
Locust Creek Near Linneus
|
35cfs |
Grand River At Chillicothe
|
361cfs |
Chariton River Near Prairie Hill
|
106cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
8cfs |
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.
Swan Lake Dam