Lake Tapawingo Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Tapawingo Dam in Missouri, completed in 1926, serves as a vital structure for recreation, with a primary purpose of providing a recreational outlet for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 55 feet and spans a length of 970 feet, holding a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet. It is situated on the TR East Fork of Little Blue River, within Jackson County, Missouri.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of 2007, Lake Tapawingo Dam poses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 26 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the release of excess water during periods of high discharge. The surrounding area covers 78 acres with a drainage area of 1299 acres, making it a significant feature in the local water resource and climate landscape.

Lake Tapawingo Dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment. With its historical significance and role in providing recreational opportunities, this dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region, underscoring the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term sustainability.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

TR EAST FORK OF LITTLE BLUE R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

78

Drainage Area

1299

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

55

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

55
       
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.