Palmer Farms Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Palmer Farms Lake Dam, located in Ethlyn, Missouri, is a private earth dam with a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this dam serves as a key structure along the Campbell Branch of the Cuivre River, providing essential water resource management for the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, Palmer Farms Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting agricultural activities in Lincoln County.

Despite its significant contributions to the region, Palmer Farms Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its age and lack of condition assessment. While the dam has not been rated for its current condition, its high hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of nearby communities and properties. Although it is not regulated by the state and has no designated inspection frequency, the dam's owners must prioritize risk management measures and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential threats and safeguard the surrounding environment.

As a private dam with limited federal oversight, Palmer Farms Lake Dam stands as a testament to the critical role of water resource management in supporting local economies and ecosystems. With its historical significance and operational importance, this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for proactive maintenance and risk assessment to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of water infrastructure in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts alike can appreciate the complexities and challenges associated with managing dams like Palmer Farms Lake Dam, and the vital role they play in shaping the hydrological landscape of Missouri.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

CAMPBELL BR CUIVRE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

230

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.