Highlands Lower Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Highlands Lower Lake Dam, located in Boone County, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 4 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area.
Despite its important role in recreation, Highlands Lower Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The dam, situated on a tributary to Cedar Creek, is not regulated or inspected by state agencies, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety. Although there are no associated locks or spillways, the dam's proximity to the community of Columbia underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and risk management measures.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty and utility of Highlands Lower Lake Dam, it is essential to emphasize the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. With its high hazard potential and lack of regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in balancing recreational opportunities with public safety in water resource management. By staying informed and engaged, enthusiasts can help ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this vital structure.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB TO CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
91 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hinkson Creek At Columbia
|
1cfs |
Moniteau Creek Near Fayette
|
3cfs |
Missouri River At Boonville
|
30100cfs |
Missouri River At Jefferson City
|
30600cfs |
Moreau River Near Jefferson City
|
30cfs |
Osage River Below St. Thomas
|
1210cfs |
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.
Highlands Lower Lake Dam