Cowan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Cowan Lake Dam, located in Carroll County, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam measuring 25 feet in height.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built on TR-Cottonwood Creek, the dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 50 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment.
Even though Cowan Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a designated state agency overseeing its inspection or enforcement, it still plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. With a drainage area of 33 square miles and a surface area of 6 acres, the dam helps in flood control and water storage for various purposes. Despite its modest size and limited features, Cowan Lake Dam contributes to the overall water resource management in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Cowan Lake Dam in maintaining a balanced ecosystem and ensuring water availability for various needs. While the dam may not have undergone recent inspections or rating assessments, its presence and function are integral to the local community and surrounding environment. As stewards of water resources, it is essential to monitor and support the maintenance of dams like Cowan Lake to sustainably manage our water systems for the future.
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
33 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Shoal Creek Near Braymer Mo
|
0cfs |
Grand River At Chillicothe
|
361cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
39cfs |
Grand River Near Sumner
|
223cfs |
Crooked River Near Richmond
|
3cfs |
Missouri River At Waverly
|
27800cfs |
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.
Cowan Lake Dam