Morse Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: April 2, 2026

Morse Lake Dam in Smithville, Missouri was completed in 1971 and serves as a vital structure for debris control along the TR-LINN BRANCH river/stream.


Summary

This private dam, with a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, also caters to purposes such as fire protection, stock or small fish pond, and recreation. Despite not being regulated by the state or having undergone recent inspections, the dam's low hazard potential and earth construction type suggest a stable and secure structure.

Located in Clinton County, Missouri, Morse Lake Dam is managed for the primary purpose of debris control, ensuring the safety and functionality of the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and a drainage area of 130 square miles, the dam provides essential protection and support for the local ecosystem. While the dam's condition has not been formally assessed, its low hazard potential indicates that it poses minimal risk to the community.

Although Morse Lake Dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or receive state permitting or inspection, its presence as a private structure highlights the importance of local initiatives in managing water resources and climate-related concerns. With a focus on maintaining debris control and supporting various recreational and ecological activities, the dam serves as a key asset in the sustainable development of the region.



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Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1971

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-LINN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

130

Nid Storage

48

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.