Beard Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Beard Lake Dam, located in Vernon County, Missouri, was completed in 1976 and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife management.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 20 feet and a length of 850 feet, this earth dam sits on TR-Kitten Creek and provides a surface area of 5 acres for various recreational and conservation activities. The dam's primary purpose is to function as a fish and wildlife pond, while also serving for fire protection, irrigation, and stock purposes.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Beard Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 120 cubic feet per second. With a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a drainage area of 140.16 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the local ecosystem and providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.
Beard Lake Dam, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Vernon County, Missouri, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and conservation efforts. With its focus on fish and wildlife preservation, the dam serves as a sanctuary for various species while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, the significance of Beard Lake Dam lies in its contribution to maintaining a healthy ecosystem and ensuring sustainable water usage for future generations.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-KITTEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
140.16 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
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.
Beard Lake Dam