Commandeer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Commandeer Lake Dam in Independence, Missouri, was completed in 1962 and is primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, designed by SHERMAN GODSY, is an Earth type dam with a height of 42 feet and a length of 700 feet. It sits on the TR-E FK LITTLE BLUE RIVER and has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 47 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition.

The dam is privately owned and regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri. It has state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The last inspection was conducted in November 2016, with a frequency of 5 years. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates. The risk assessment for Commandeer Lake Dam is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date of None and no specific risk management measures outlined.

Overall, Commandeer Lake Dam is a significant structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. Its design, purpose, and regulatory framework provide valuable insights into the management of water resources in Missouri. With its recreational focus and moderate risk assessment, the dam serves as a key example of balancing human activities with environmental safety in dam construction and operation.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

TR-E FK LITTLE BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

14

Nid Storage

56

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

42
       
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.