Berndt Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Berndt Lake Dam, located in Mercer County, Missouri, was completed in 1946 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 58 feet and has a length of 1000 feet, with a storage capacity of 410 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Pops Branch and is under state jurisdiction but is not regulated by the state.
With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Berndt Lake Dam poses a potential threat in case of failure. The dam is classified as an "other" type of dam, constructed with stone core and soil foundation. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 35 feet. Despite not being inspected since 2009, the dam has not been rated for its current condition.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Berndt Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure due to its historical significance and multiple purposes it serves in the local community. Its location on Pops Branch and the surrounding area's drainage area of 193 square miles add to its importance in managing water resources in the region. However, the dam's lack of recent inspections and high hazard potential indicate the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
58 |
River Or Stream |
POPS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
19.9 |
Drainage Area |
193 |
Nid Storage |
410 |
Structural Height |
58 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
58 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Berndt Lake Dam