May Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

May Lake Dam, located in Audrain, Missouri, serves as a vital infrastructure for irrigation purposes since its completion in 1978.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for agricultural activities in the region. With a low hazard potential and not yet rated condition assessment, May Lake Dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for farmers and livestock while also offering recreational opportunities in the area.

Situated on the TR-South Fork Salt River, May Lake Dam contributes to fire protection, small fish ponds, and stock watering in addition to its primary purpose of irrigation. Despite the lack of state regulation and inspection, the dam continues to play a significant role in water management within the St. Louis District. Not only does it provide essential water storage during dry periods, but it also supports the local ecosystem and enhances the overall climate resilience of the region.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Mexico, Missouri, May Lake Dam showcases the importance of private ownership in water resource management. With its strategic location and capacity to store water, this earth dam serves as a vital asset for the community, ensuring a sustainable water supply for agricultural, recreational, and environmental needs. By understanding the significance of dams like May Lake in maintaining water resources and climate resilience, enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate balance between human development and natural ecosystems in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH FORK SALT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

120

Nid Storage

116

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.