Sparrow Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sparrow Lake Dam, located in Nelsonville, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, with a structural height of 25 feet, has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres. The dam, built on TR-Allen Branch, has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment.
Even though Sparrow Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permits or inspections, it remains an important asset for the local community. With its tranquil surroundings and recreational opportunities, such as fishing and boating, the dam attracts visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Lewis County. Despite its unlisted construction date, the dam continues to serve as a safe and reliable resource for water-based activities.
While Sparrow Lake Dam may not have a designated emergency action plan or risk assessment in place, its low hazard potential and remote location contribute to its overall safety. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is essential for private dam owners like Sparrow Lake Dam to prioritize maintenance and monitoring to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of these recreational structures.
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ALLEN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
23 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fabius River Near Taylor
|
12cfs |
Salt River Near Shelbina
|
30cfs |
North River At Palmyra
|
21cfs |
Wyaconda River Above Canton
|
13cfs |
Salt River At Hagers Grove
|
1cfs |
Crooked Creek Near Paris
|
1cfs |
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.
Sparrow Lake Dam