Fisher Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fisher Lake Dam, located in McDonald County, Missouri, has been serving as a vital infrastructure for irrigation since its completion in 1967.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an Earth type structure with a height of 40 feet and a length of 380 feet, provides a maximum storage capacity of 266 acre-feet, primarily for agricultural purposes. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Missouri Dam and Reservoir Safety Program to ensure its safe operation and maintenance.
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, Fisher Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the region's water resource management, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. The dam's spillway, with a width of 30 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for controlled release of excess water during peak flow periods. The dam also serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and recreation, in addition to its primary function of irrigation. With a drainage area of 790 acres and a surface area of 20 acres, Fisher Lake Dam is a significant contributor to the local water supply and ecosystem.
Given its strategic location on the TR-Elk Prairie River and its importance in water resource management, Fisher Lake Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure in McDonald County, Missouri. As a key component in the region's water supply system, the dam's operation and maintenance are essential for ensuring a sustainable water supply for irrigation, recreation, and other purposes. With ongoing regulatory oversight and inspections, Fisher Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in supporting the community's water needs while mitigating potential risks associated with its operation.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELK PRAIRIE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
790 |
Nid Storage |
266 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Fisher Lake Dam