Hester Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Hester Lake Dam, located in Clearmont, Missouri, is a private-owned earth dam on TR Muddy Creek with a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet.
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Summary
The dam, constructed by a private entity, serves the primary purpose of water storage and regulation for agricultural and recreational use in the area. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated", the dam is currently not regulated or inspected by the state.
Despite being privately owned, Hester Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the local water resource management, providing storage for irrigation and recreational activities in Nodaway County. With a drainage area of 1490 acres and a normal storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, the dam contributes to the overall water availability and management in the region. However, the lack of state regulation and inspection raises questions about the long-term safety and maintenance of the structure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of dams and water infrastructure in Missouri may find Hester Lake Dam to be an intriguing case study. The dam's location on TR Muddy Creek, its private ownership, and the absence of state oversight present a unique scenario for understanding the challenges and opportunities in managing small-scale dams for water resource sustainability in the region. Further research and monitoring of Hester Lake Dam could provide valuable insights into the impact of private ownership on dam safety and the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR MUDDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1490 |
Nid Storage |
128 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Hester Lake Dam