Bushwhacker Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Francis Lake Dam Murphy Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bushwhacker Dam, also known as Bushwacker Lake Dam, is a captivating earth dam located in Vernon, Missouri on the scenic Little Dry Wood Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1981, the dam serves as a significant recreational site with a primary purpose of providing recreational activities for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a length of 1300 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet and a surface area of 164 acres.
Managed by the state regulatory agency DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, Bushwhacker Dam has a hazard potential rated as significant, but its condition assessment is rated as satisfactory. The dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2015, ensuring its safety and stability. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to engage in various water activities.
Water enthusiasts can appreciate Bushwhacker Dam not only for its recreational offerings but also for its role in managing the flow of the Little Dry Wood Creek and providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. As a vital asset in the region, the dam contributes to the conservation and utilization of water resources, making it a must-visit destination for those passionate about water management and climate-related issues in Missouri.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
1300 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE DRY WOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
164 |
Drainage Area |
2650 |
Nid Storage |
156 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Bushwhacker Dam