Wright Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jones Dam Jones, Clarence Dam East
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wright Lake Dam, located in Buchanan County, Missouri, was completed in 1981 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet. Situated on Rock Creek, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. Despite being privately owned, the dam does not fall under state regulation or inspection.
The dam's location in the Rock Island District and its association with recreational activities make it an intriguing spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 180 square miles, Wright Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to observe the interaction between human-made structures and natural water systems. While it may not have a spillway or outlet gates, the dam's presence on Rock Creek adds to the diverse landscape of water resources in Missouri.
As a privately owned structure, Wright Lake Dam provides a case study for understanding the management and regulation of dams outside of federal or state oversight. Its construction and design as an earth dam with a buttress core highlight the engineering considerations necessary for balancing recreational use with water storage needs. For enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources, climate, and infrastructure, Wright Lake Dam offers a valuable point of reference in exploring the complexities of managing water systems in diverse environments.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
ROCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
180 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Platte River Near Agency
|
85cfs |
Missouri River At St. Joseph
|
24600cfs |
Platte River At Sharps Station
|
87cfs |
Little Platte River At Smithville
|
14cfs |
Little Platte River Near Plattsburg
|
1cfs |
Stranger C Nr Potter
|
199cfs |
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.
Wright Lake Dam