Mechlin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Located in Macon, Missouri, Mechlin Lake Dam stands as a private structure designed for debris control, recreation, and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, this Earth-type dam has a height of 31 feet and a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet, providing essential support for the surrounding area. The dam overlooks the TR-MIDDLE FORK SALT RIVER, serving as a vital component in managing water resources and ensuring the safety of the community.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment labeled as "Not Rated", Mechlin Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in maintaining water levels and facilitating recreational activities in the region. Despite not being regulated by the state or federal agencies, the dam serves as a testament to private ownership and responsibility in safeguarding water resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Mechlin Lake Dam play a vital role in managing these challenges and ensuring sustainable water management practices.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, the presence of Mechlin Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the importance of private ownership in managing water infrastructure. With a primary purpose of debris control and a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet, this Earth-type dam serves as a key asset in water supply and recreation in Macon, Missouri. As the community faces evolving climate risks, Mechlin Lake Dam stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-MIDDLE FORK SALT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

30

Nid Storage

116

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.