Bennett Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Bennett Lake Dam, located in McBaine, Missouri, was completed in 1972 and serves as a vital structure for the conservation of fish and wildlife in the area.


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Summary

Standing at 20 feet in height and stretching 460 feet in length, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 70 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Reeder Creek and is owned by a private entity, with no state or federal regulatory oversight.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bennett Lake Dam plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock, small fish pond management, and recreational activities in the region. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 28 feet wide, allows for a maximum discharge of 64 cubic feet per second. The dam's risk assessment is classified as moderate, with a risk management plan in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Bennett Lake Dam to be a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure supporting local ecosystems while providing recreational opportunities for the community. With its strategic location and design, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing environmental conservation with human activities in water resource management.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-REEDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.6

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

240

Nid Storage

103

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.