Rudolf Bennitt Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Rudolf Bennitt Lake Dam, also known as Moniteau Site A-3a, is a state-owned earth dam in Howard County, Missouri, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1999.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves as a fish and wildlife pond and recreational area. With a height of 53 feet and a length of 600 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 767 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 48 acres.
Located on the Moniteau Creek and regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, Rudolf Bennitt Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2007. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been modified in recent years and is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. With a spillway width of 40 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a maximum discharge of 662 cubic feet per second, serving as a critical infrastructure for managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rudolf Bennitt Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of dam infrastructure in Missouri. Its design, purpose, and management reflect the intersection of environmental conservation, flood control, and recreational activities. As a key component in the state's water management system, the dam plays a vital role in protecting communities along the Moniteau Creek watershed while also providing opportunities for wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
MONITEAU CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48 |
Drainage Area |
95200 |
Nid Storage |
767 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
53 |
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.
Rudolf Bennitt Lake Dam