Higdon Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lady's Lake Dam Sidha Farms Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Higdon Lake Dam, located in Lafayette, Missouri, was completed in 1930 and serves as a recreational water resource for the surrounding area.
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Summary
This private dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 26 acre-feet. The dam is primarily made of earth with a buttress core type, making it an essential structure for water management in the region.
Despite its importance for recreation and water storage, Higdon Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its age and lack of recent condition assessments. The dam has not been rated for its current condition and inspection frequency is not specified, raising concerns about its structural integrity and safety. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are also not clearly outlined, indicating a need for further monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
With its location on TR-EDWARDS BR-MISSOURI RIVER and proximity to the Kansas City District, Higdon Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. However, the lack of state regulation, inspection, and enforcement raises questions about the long-term sustainability of this important infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Higdon Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to safeguard our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EDWARDS BR-MISSOURI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
140 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Waverly
|
26800cfs |
Wakenda Creek At Carrollton
|
8cfs |
Crooked River Near Richmond
|
4cfs |
Blackwater River At Blue Lick
|
25cfs |
Shoal Creek Near Braymer Mo
|
12cfs |
Grand River Near Sumner
|
220cfs |
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.
Higdon Lake Dam