Mendenhall Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Located in Lawrence, Missouri, the Mendenhall Lake Dam is a private Earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 20 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not yet rated, the dam serves as a key feature along TR-JOHNSON CREEK, providing both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for visitors.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, the Mendenhall Lake Dam remains a crucial part of the local landscape, offering residents and tourists a serene spot for outdoor activities. The dam's buttress core type and unlisted/unknown foundation contribute to its structural integrity, while its location near the city of PENNSBORO makes it easily accessible to the public. As a privately owned structure, the dam's maintenance and upkeep are essential to ensure its continued safety and functionality for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
While the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently not specified, its significance in providing recreation opportunities and enhancing the natural beauty of the area cannot be understated. With a focus on safety and conservation, the Mendenhall Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management and the harmonious coexistence of human recreation with the surrounding environment.
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JOHNSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
990 |
Nid Storage |
86 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Mendenhall Lake Dam