Bankhead Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Bankhead Lake Dam in Missouri, completed in 1962, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and water supply.


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Summary

This private dam, with a height of 22 feet and a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet, is situated on the TR-DRY CREEK in Howard County. Despite being unlisted as a state-regulated structure, the dam poses low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition.

Located in New Franklin, Bankhead Lake Dam is managed by private owners and falls under the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections or been assessed for its condition, it remains an integral part of the local water resource infrastructure. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 29 square miles, this earth-type dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water levels and supporting the ecosystem in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bankhead Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural ecosystems. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's multi-purpose functions highlight the importance of sustainable water management strategies. As a privately owned structure with no state regulatory oversight, the dam's condition and maintenance could potentially impact the surrounding environment. Exploring the history and significance of Bankhead Lake Dam provides valuable insights into the intricate balance between human needs and environmental conservation in water resource management.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

29

Nid Storage

73

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.