Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Papinsville, Missouri, Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29 serves as an important irrigation structure for the region.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29 is to provide water for irrigation, as well as for fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and general water supply needs.
Owned privately, Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29 is not regulated by the state and has a low hazard potential. Although the dam is not currently rated for condition assessment, it plays a crucial role in supporting the local agricultural community by ensuring a reliable water source for irrigation. With a drainage area of 80 square miles and a surface area of 11 acres, Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29 contributes to the efficient management of water resources in Bates County, Missouri.
While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, its construction and design reflect a buttress core type. As a key infrastructure for water management in the area, Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29 highlights the importance of sustainable water resource practices and the role of private ownership in maintaining essential irrigation structures for agricultural productivity.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIAMI CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
80 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marais Des Cygnes R Nr Ks-Mo St Line
|
223cfs |
South Grand River At Archie
|
27cfs |
Marais Des Cygnes R At La Cygne
|
196cfs |
Little Osage R. At Horton
|
4cfs |
L Osage R At Fulton
|
1cfs |
South Grand River At Urich
|
28cfs |
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.
Ward Lake Dam-Sec 29