Tharp Orchard Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Tharp Orchard Lake Dam, located in Jackson County, Missouri, serves as a crucial irrigation source for the surrounding area.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of irrigation, the dam also provides opportunities for recreation on the 4-acre surface area of Tharp Orchard Lake. Standing at a height of 25 feet, the earth dam is supported by buttress core types, ensuring structural integrity for the 54-acre-feet of storage capacity it offers.

Despite its significant role in water resource management, the Tharp Orchard Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. This designation highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam. While the dam is not state-regulated or permitted, its operation and enforcement fall under the responsibility of private ownership.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Tharp Orchard Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of irrigation infrastructure and recreational use in a privately-owned setting. With its location in the heart of Missouri, the dam's role in supporting the local community's water needs underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-FIRE PRAIRIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

35

Nid Storage

54

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.