Donaldson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Donaldson Lake Dam, located in Mexico, Missouri, was completed in 1977 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-SCATTERING BR-LONG BRANCH river or stream, within the Audrain County.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Donaldson Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its condition not being rated. The dam's hazard potential highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its proximity to the St. Louis District and the involvement of federal agencies, the dam's future management and risk mitigation measures will be crucial for the surrounding community and the environment.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the unique features of Donaldson Lake Dam, such as its buttress core type and unlisted/unknown foundation. The dam also offers recreational opportunities and covers a surface area of 16 acres. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the management and maintenance of dams like Donaldson Lake Dam becomes increasingly important for ensuring sustainable water use and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SCATTERING BR-LONG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
380 |
Nid Storage |
128 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Donaldson Lake Dam