Craig Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Craig Lake Dam, located in Bethany, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1956 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Situated on the TR-West Fork Big Creek, this dam has a height of 32 feet and a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, Craig Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for water supply, recreation, and wildlife in the region.
Managed by a private owner, Craig Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various purposes while also offering recreational opportunities for the community. The dam's strategic location in Harrison County, Missouri, ensures a reliable source of water for fire protection and stock, as well as a serene setting for fishing and outdoor activities. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the dam continues to serve its intended functions effectively.
With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Craig Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in sustaining both human and environmental needs. As climate change and water scarcity become increasingly pressing issues, the role of dams like Craig Lake Dam in ensuring water availability and ecosystem health becomes more crucial than ever. This dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and natural resource preservation in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
200 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Craig Lake Dam