Nuelle Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Nuelle Lake Dam, located in Lafayette, Missouri, was completed in 1973 and serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

This private dam, with a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 201 acre-feet, is crucial for ensuring water availability for various uses in the region. The dam is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type and is situated on the TR to Davis Creek, managed by the Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

With a surface area of 15 acres and a drainage area of 250 square miles, Nuelle Lake Dam plays a significant role in regulating water flow in the region. However, the dam has a high hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the dam remains a vital structure for the community, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring its safety to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

As a valuable resource for water supply and recreation, Nuelle Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human development and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location and multifaceted purposes, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for various needs while ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Nuelle Lake Dam to be a fascinating case study in the management of water infrastructure in a private setting within the heart of Missouri.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR TO DAVIS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

250

Nid Storage

201

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.