Elson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Elson Lake Dam, located in Saline, Missouri, is a privately owned Earth-type dam that was completed in 1967 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam has a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 294 acre-feet, serving as a key feature on the TR-Salt Branch Missouri River. Despite being unregulated by the state and rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not received a formal condition assessment.
With its picturesque surroundings and ample storage capacity, Elson Lake Dam provides a serene setting for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Its location in the Rock Island District adds to its appeal, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts who are drawn to the beauty and tranquility of the area. While the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, its low hazard potential suggests that it continues to safely support recreational use without significant concerns for public safety.
As a privately owned structure, Elson Lake Dam represents a unique blend of natural beauty and human engineering, offering both a functional purpose and a recreational escape for visitors. Its strategic location in Glasgow, Missouri, makes it a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors while appreciating the importance of water resources and climate conservation efforts. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its modern recreational amenities, makes it a valuable asset for both the local community and water enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SALT BRANCH MISSOURI R |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Drainage Area |
890 |
Nid Storage |
294 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mussel Fork Near Musselfork
|
12cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
8cfs |
Missouri River At Glasgow
|
28400cfs |
Missouri River At Waverly
|
26800cfs |
Grand River Near Sumner
|
220cfs |
Blackwater River At Blue Lick
|
25cfs |
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.
Elson Lake Dam