Hidden Valley Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Hidden Valley Lake Dam, located in Princeton, Missouri, was completed in 1972 and serves as a private recreation area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 26 feet, has a storage capacity of 195 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 14 acres. While the dam is primarily used for recreational purposes, it also plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management in the area.

Despite being privately owned, Hidden Valley Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam is not regulated by the state and has not undergone inspection, enforcement, or permitting processes. With a lack of recent data on the dam's condition and emergency preparedness measures, it is important for water resource enthusiasts to stay informed about the potential risks associated with the dam and advocate for proper maintenance and oversight to ensure its continued safety and functionality for both recreational and environmental purposes.

In the picturesque setting of Mercer County, Missouri, Hidden Valley Lake Dam stands as a hidden gem for those interested in water resources and climate. With its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, the dam offers a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature while also highlighting the importance of responsible dam management and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource in the region.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

POPS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

1204

Nid Storage

195

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.