Ausburn's Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Ausburn's Lake Dam, located in McBaine, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1965 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 19 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 80 acres, the dam serves as a scenic water resource for the community, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.

Although Ausburn's Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and has a low hazard potential, it has not been formally assessed for its condition. The dam does not have a designated spillway and is classified as an unlisted/unknown foundation type with a buttress core. Despite the lack of recent inspections and condition assessments, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors seeking outdoor recreational experiences in Boone County, Missouri.

With its tranquil surroundings and ample storage capacity, Ausburn's Lake Dam remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the TR-Cow Branch river system. While the dam's regulatory status and condition assessment may be unclear, its role in providing recreational opportunities and supporting the local ecosystem make it a valuable asset for the community to enjoy and appreciate.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-COW BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

80

Nid Storage

81

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.