Limberlost Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Limberlost Dam, also known as Austin Harrison Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Newton County, Missouri.
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Summary
Built in 1957 by designer Austin Harrison, this earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and spans 210 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam impounds TR Lost Creek and offers a serene surface area of 9 acres for leisure activities.
Managed by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program, Limberlost Dam has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and a drainage area of 185 acres. While the dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 40 feet, its valve outlet gates allow for controlled water release. The dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with a high hazard potential and moderate risk level. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent occurring in January 2018, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure for both recreational users and surrounding communities.
Limberlost Dam serves as a vital water resource in the area, providing not only flood control benefits but also a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and climate resilience in Missouri.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
210 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
TR LOST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
185 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Shoal Creek Above Joplin
|
151cfs |
Spring River Near Quapaw
|
455cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Tiff City
|
13cfs |
Tar Creek At 22nd Street Bridge
|
4cfs |
Elk River Near Tiff City
|
268cfs |
Indian Creek Near Lanagan
|
68cfs |
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.
Limberlost Dam