Elm Springs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elm Springs Lake Dam, located in Carter County, Missouri, was completed in 1955 and serves as a recreational resource for the area.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of rockfill with a buttress core type, stands at 25 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 241 acre-feet. With a surface area of 18 acres and a drainage area of 4850 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Although the dam is privately owned and not regulated by the state, it has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. With no inspection frequency listed and various emergency preparedness measures not indicated, there are opportunities for further evaluation and risk management to ensure the dam's safety and longevity. Despite these challenges, Elm Springs Lake Dam remains an important feature along Elm Branch-Big Brushy Creek, providing opportunities for recreation and enjoyment for local residents and visitors alike.

In the hands of private owners, Elm Springs Lake Dam continues to stand as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and recreational development. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and environmental stewardship. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the area, they are sure to appreciate the beauty and functionality of Elm Springs Lake Dam, while also considering the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in the years to come.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

ELM BRANCH-BIG BRUSHY CREEK.

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

4850

Nid Storage

241

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

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.