Ruehter Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Ruehter Lake Dam, located in Lafayette, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily designed for Fish and Wildlife Pond purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1977, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet, with a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 29 feet. It spans 300 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial asset in the region's water resource management.
The dam, situated on Little Tabo Creek, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, grade stabilization, and recreation. Despite being unregulated by the state and lacking permits and inspections, Ruehter Lake Dam plays a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance in the area. With its uncontrolled spillway and minimal risk management measures, the dam requires close monitoring and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Although not under the jurisdiction of federal agencies or subject to regular inspections, Ruehter Lake Dam remains an essential structure for wildlife preservation and water resource management in the region. With a focus on fish and wildlife pond development, this privately owned dam contributes to the sustainability of the local ecosystem while also providing recreational opportunities for residents in Waverly, Missouri.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE TABO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
153.6 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Waverly
|
26800cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
8cfs |
Crooked River Near Richmond
|
4cfs |
Blackwater River At Blue Lick
|
25cfs |
Little Blue River Near Lake City
|
17cfs |
Shoal Creek Near Braymer Mo
|
12cfs |
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.
Ruehter Lake Dam