Tarpening Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Tarpening Lake Dam, located in Keytesville, Missouri, was completed in 1976 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This privately owned earthen dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 82 acre-feet. The dam sits on TR-Clarks Creek, within the Rock Island District, and covers a surface area of 7 acres with a drainage area of 13 acres.

Despite its recreational focus, Tarpening Lake Dam is classified as a high hazard potential structure, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." The dam has not been inspected in recent years and lacks Emergency Action Plan (EAP) preparations. The dam's risk assessment, risk management measures, and other relevant details are also currently unavailable. With its intriguing history and potential risks, Tarpening Lake Dam offers a unique subject of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the complexities of dam management and safety in the state of Missouri.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-CLARKS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.