Breen Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Breen Lake Dam, located in Weatherby Lake, Missouri, stands at a height of 25 feet and was completed in 1972 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, the dam holds back Rush Creek to create a serene 3-acre lake for local residents and visitors to enjoy. While the dam is owned privately, it is not regulated or inspected by the state, posing a potential hazard due to its high hazard potential rating.

Despite its age and lack of recent inspections, Breen Lake Dam continues to serve its recreational purpose effectively, offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts in Platte County, Missouri. However, concerns about the structural integrity of the dam remain due to its high hazard potential rating and lack of state regulation and enforcement. The dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," highlighting the need for further assessment and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of those who frequent the area.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of monitoring and maintaining dams like Breen Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial. With its proximity to Rush Creek and limited drainage area, the potential for flooding and other emergencies underscores the need for comprehensive emergency action plans and risk assessments. Collaborative efforts between private owners, state agencies, and the local community may be necessary to address any potential safety concerns and ensure the long-term viability of this recreational water resource.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-RUSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

40

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.