James Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Young Dam No. 1 Ingells & Ervin Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
James Lake Dam, located in Ravenwood, Missouri, is a private dam constructed in 1977 primarily for grade stabilization along Brushy Creek.
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Summary
Standing at 23 feet tall and stretching 400 feet in length, this earth dam with a stone core serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and serving as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and a normal storage of 40 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 3 acres and drains a watershed area of 32 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, James Lake Dam has a moderate risk rating of 3 due to its uncontrolled spillway type and lack of inspection data. It has not been rated for condition assessment and does not have an emergency action plan in place. With a maximum discharge capability of 80 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing erosion in the region. As an enthusiast of water resources and climate, exploring the management and maintenance practices of James Lake Dam can offer insights into the challenges and opportunities in safeguarding critical infrastructure for sustainable water resource management.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BRUSHY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
32 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
James Lake Dam