Woodrail Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Woodrail Lake Dam, located in Hinkson, Missouri, is a private earth dam completed in 1968 for the primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 54 feet and stretches 480 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 324 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 12 acres. It is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, ensuring state inspection, enforcement, and permitting to maintain its structural integrity and safety.

With its location on Hinkson Creek and a drainage area of 240 square miles, Woodrail Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in Boone County. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with regular inspections and a moderate risk assessment rating. The emergency action plan is in place, although updates to contact information and guidelines adherence are needed for optimal risk management.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Woodrail Lake Dam as a vital infrastructure for both recreational and environmental purposes. Its role in regulating water levels, mitigating flood risks, and providing a serene recreational area underscores the importance of responsible dam management and continuous monitoring to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential water resource in Missouri.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

HINKSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

240

Nid Storage

324

Structural Height

54

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

54
       
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.