Cook's Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Cook's Lake Dam, located in Wakenda, Missouri, stands as a testament to the importance of water resources in supporting recreational activities.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this private Earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, providing a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 11 acres. Situated on the TR-Wakenda Creek, this dam offers a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Cook's Lake Dam presents a safe and enjoyable environment for both locals and tourists alike. The dam's design, featuring a buttress core type and a structural height of 20 feet, ensures its stability and functionality over the years. While not regulated by the state and lacking inspection and enforcement protocols, the dam still serves as a valuable resource for the surrounding community.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, Cook's Lake Dam remains a vital component in preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities in Carroll County, Missouri. With its peaceful waters and picturesque surroundings, this dam stands as a symbol of the importance of sustainable water management and the harmonious coexistence between human recreation and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-WAKENDA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

615

Nid Storage

118

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.