Fertch Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Fertch Lake Dam, located in Ralls, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam with a buttress core type that stands at a height of 20 feet.
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Summary
The dam has a storage capacity of 43 acre-feet and serves the purpose of water resource management in the area. With a high hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water security for the surrounding community.
Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, Fertch Lake Dam remains a vital structure in the region, with a maximum storage capacity of 43 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 27 acre-feet. The dam's design and construction are essential in managing the drainage area of 110 square miles and providing a surface area of 4 acres for recreational use. As climate change continues to impact water resources, this dam highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure for adapting to evolving environmental conditions.
With the St. Louis District overseeing its management, Fertch Lake Dam is a significant asset in the region, with a primary purpose of water storage and flood control. Despite being privately owned, the dam's role in water resource management and climate resilience underscores the importance of effective dam maintenance and emergency preparedness. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Fertch Lake Dam is crucial in ensuring a sustainable and secure water future for communities in Missouri and beyond.
Dam Height |
20 |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
110 |
Nid Storage |
43 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Salt River Near Center
|
57cfs |
Salt River Near New London
|
76cfs |
Lick Creek At Perry
|
1cfs |
Spencer Cr. Bl Plum Cr. Nr Frankford
|
15cfs |
Bear Creek At Hannibal
|
5cfs |
North River At Palmyra
|
11cfs |
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.
Fertch Lake Dam
Ralls County