Holly Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Holly Lake Dam, located in Liberty, Missouri, was completed in 1955 and primarily serves as a recreational site.


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Summary

Designed by E. Dan Weiskirch, this private dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a length of 570 feet. It holds a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres, with a drainage area of 85 square miles. The dam is classified as an Earth-type structure with a buttress core and rests on a soil foundation.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of 2007, Holly Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and is regulated by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program in Missouri. It undergoes regular state inspections, with the last inspection conducted in September 2017. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 448 cubic feet per second. In case of emergencies, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in December 2010.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts would be intrigued by the strategic location and design of Holly Lake Dam, which plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while ensuring public safety. This dam on the Little Shoal Creek stands as a testament to responsible dam management practices, with a focus on risk assessment and maintaining satisfactory conditions. The dam's significance lies not only in its structural attributes but also in its role in water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE SHOAL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

85

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

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.