Salisbury Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Salisbury Lake Dam, located in Audrain County, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1974, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 1675 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 158 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Possum Walk Creek, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it an important but relatively stable component of the local water resource infrastructure.
Despite not being regulated or inspected by state authorities, Salisbury Lake Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the agricultural needs of the surrounding area. With a spillway width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 95 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle potential flooding events. While its condition assessment is not rated and emergency action plans are not currently in place, the dam's overall risk management measures are considered to be moderate, ensuring the safety and reliability of its operations for both irrigation and water resource enthusiasts alike.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices can appreciate the significance of structures like Salisbury Lake Dam in providing irrigation support while minimizing environmental impact. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam exemplifies the balance between water supply needs and ecosystem preservation. As stakeholders continue to monitor and assess the dam's performance, it stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to enhance water resource management in the region, showcasing the vital role that infrastructure plays in shaping the resilience of communities in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
1675 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-POSSUM WALK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
588.8 |
Nid Storage |
158 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Salisbury Lake Dam