Westfork Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Langkop Lake Dam Veulemans Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Westfork Lake Dam, located in Morgan County, Missouri, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1983 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 37 feet and stretching 780 feet in length, impounds Messer Creek to create West Fork Lake, with a storage capacity of 402 acre-feet and a surface area of 33 acres. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Missouri Dam and Reservoir Safety Program to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated in the scenic countryside of Syracuse, Westfork Lake Dam offers a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and rock/soil foundation contribute to its unique design, while its moderate risk assessment and maintained emergency action plan ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With a maximum discharge capacity of 55 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 511 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting recreational activities in the region.
Managed by a private entity, Westfork Lake Dam serves as a vital recreation spot for locals and visitors alike, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While the dam's primary purpose remains focused on recreation, its importance in water resource management and climate adaptation cannot be understated. With its impressive structure and regulated operations, Westfork Lake Dam stands as a symbol of responsible stewardship and sustainable development in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
780 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
MESSER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33 |
Drainage Area |
511 |
Nid Storage |
402 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lamine River Near Otterville
|
40cfs |
Missouri River At Boonville
|
35200cfs |
Blackwater River At Blue Lick
|
82cfs |
Hinkson Creek At Columbia
|
3cfs |
Osage River Near Bagnell
|
1020cfs |
Moniteau Creek Near Fayette
|
4cfs |
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.
Westfork Lake Dam