Zurbuchen Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Woods Dam Gower Reservoir Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Zurbuchen Lake Dam, located in Platte City, Missouri, is a privately owned structure built in 1976 for flood risk reduction along the TR-Castille Creek.
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Summary
Standing at 33 feet tall and 435 feet long, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock or small fish pond, fish and wildlife pond, grade stabilization, and recreation. With a storage capacity of 382 acre-feet and a normal storage of 139 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite being a low hazard potential structure, the condition of Zurbuchen Lake Dam is currently not rated. However, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level of 3, prompting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 33 feet, and no outlet gates or associated locks. While it is not regulated by the state, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Rock Island District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, adding an extra layer of oversight to its operations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Zurbuchen Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. Its strategic location, multiple purposes, and moderate risk level make it a dynamic structure worth monitoring. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the role of dams like Zurbuchen Lake Dam in flood risk reduction and water management becomes increasingly vital for the sustainability of ecosystems and communities in the region.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CASTILLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
130 |
Nid Storage |
382 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Platte River Near Plattsburg
|
4cfs |
Platte River Near Agency
|
208cfs |
Little Platte River At Smithville
|
15cfs |
Platte River At Sharps Station
|
335cfs |
Missouri River At St. Joseph
|
26600cfs |
Missouri River At Kansas City
|
32300cfs |
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.
Zurbuchen Lake Dam