Schmitz Brothers Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Schmitz Brothers Lake Dam, located in Ravenwood, Missouri, is a privately owned structure built in 1971 primarily for grade stabilization along the TR-Platte River.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at 27 feet tall with a length of 360 feet, providing a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and serving a drainage area of 135 acres. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Schmitz Brothers Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and no inspections have been reported, but its purpose of grade stabilization and its moderate risk assessment level indicate the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring. The dam's location in Nodaway County, Missouri, highlights its significance in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water security for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Schmitz Brothers Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in earth dam construction and management. Its design, purpose, and operational characteristics provide valuable insights into how infrastructure can contribute to both flood control and water storage needs. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity continue to grow, understanding the role of dams like Schmitz Brothers Lake Dam becomes increasingly important in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
135 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Schmitz Brothers Lake Dam