Vandalia Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Vandalia Lake Dam, also known as Steiner/Pete Reservoir Dam, is a local government-owned structure in Vandalia, Missouri, situated on the TR-South Spencer Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by RUSSEL AND AXON, this arch-type dam stands at a height of 45 feet and spans a length of 320 feet, providing a storage capacity of 789 acre-feet for recreational purposes and water supply. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG under the state jurisdiction and has a significant hazard potential.

With a satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2021, Vandalia Lake Dam has a moderate risk level (3) and is updated on a regular inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 117 feet and outlet gates for water control. Although no associated structures are present, the dam serves as a vital resource for the community, offering a surface area of 35 acres and a drainage area of 3710 acres. Overall, Vandalia Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and enhancing recreational opportunities in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH SPENCER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

35

Drainage Area

3710

Nid Storage

789

Structural Height

43

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

45
       
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.