Morris Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Morris Lake Dam in Vandalia, Missouri, is a privately owned structure designed for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans a length of 700 feet. With a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet, the dam serves a primary purpose of providing water resources for various uses in the area.

Managed by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, the state-regulated Morris Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in January 2016. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled and has a width of 15 feet. Despite being located in a moderate-risk area, the dam's risk management measures are not specified, indicating potential areas for improvement in ensuring its long-term safety and efficiency.

While Morris Lake Dam has not undergone recent modifications or emergency preparedness assessments, it remains a crucial structure for water resource management in Pike County, Missouri. With its strategic location on the Spencer River and proximity to St. Louis District, the dam continues to play a vital role in providing water storage and supply for the region's needs. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Morris Lake Dam presents a case study in private dam ownership and the importance of regular inspections and maintenance for ensuring its continued functionality.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

SPENCER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

90

Nid Storage

440

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

40
       
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.