Miller Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Miller Lake Dam, located in Knox County, Missouri, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, grade stabilization, and recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 24 feet, with a structural height of 26 feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide a fish and wildlife pond, with a normal storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 117 acre-feet.

Situated on Troublesome Creek, the Miller Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, is 20 feet wide, allowing for a maximum discharge of 46 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 129 square miles, the dam covers a surface area of 1 acre and has a length of 600 feet. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the dam still plays a crucial role in providing water resources and recreational opportunities for the local community.

While the dam has not been assessed for emergency action plans or risk management measures, its moderate risk rating and the lack of inspection raise concerns for potential safety issues. Nevertheless, with its picturesque location and multiple benefits for the environment and wildlife, Miller Lake Dam remains a significant feature in the region for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-TROUBLESOME CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

129

Nid Storage

117

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.