Great Midwest Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
The Great Midwest Lake Dam in Birmingham, Missouri, is a privately owned structure on the TR-SHOAL CREEK, managed by the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Summary
This Earth dam, with a height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, serves primarily for fire protection and as a small fish pond. Despite its small size, the dam has a high hazard potential, making it crucial for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety.
Although the dam was last inspected in 1980 and is currently listed as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it is important to note that it is not regulated or permitted by the state of Missouri. This lack of oversight raises concerns about the potential risks associated with the dam, especially given its high hazard potential. It is essential for the owners of the Great Midwest Lake Dam to prioritize safety measures and consider updating emergency action plans to meet guidelines for risk management.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Great Midwest Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure with significant implications for public safety and environmental management. The dam's location in Clay County, Missouri, highlights the importance of monitoring and maintaining infrastructure to mitigate risks associated with potential dam failures. By raising awareness about the Great Midwest Lake Dam and advocating for increased regulation and inspection, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of water resources and protection of communities at risk of dam-related hazards.
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SHOAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
26 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Great Midwest Lake Dam