Horn Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sharp Dam Pickens Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Located in Adair County, Missouri, the Horn Lake Dam is a private-owned structure constructed in 1959 primarily for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
With a dam height of 32 feet and a storage capacity of 171 acre-feet, the dam serves as a low hazard potential with a "Not Rated" condition assessment. Situated on the TR-North Fork Salt River, the dam offers opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in its 10-acre surface area.
Managed by the St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Horn Lake Dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation. Despite its lack of state oversight, the dam's safety and integrity are regularly monitored through inspections and maintenance. With a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a drainage area of 41 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage in the region, contributing to the overall water resource management in the area.
Although the Horn Lake Dam does not have a designated spillway, its earth core buttress structure ensures stability and functionality. With a congressman representative of Sam Graves (R), the dam remains a vital component in the local ecosystem, providing essential water supply and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Horn Lake Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices and the importance of balancing human needs with environmental conservation.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH FORK SALT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
41 |
Nid Storage |
171 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Horn Lake Dam