Ripley County Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Ripley County Lake Dam, located in Doniphan, Missouri, is a federally-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 880 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 206 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Briar Creek and is part of the Memphis District, with the nearest river or stream being the same creek.
With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Ripley County Lake Dam has not been inspected or assessed for condition since 1979. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its current condition, and there is no emergency action plan (EAP) in place. The risk management measures, including the presence of outlet gates or locks, remain unspecified, leaving the dam's safety and potential impact in case of failure unclear. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find this lack of recent inspection and assessment concerning, especially given the dam's significant hazard potential.
Overall, Ripley County Lake Dam presents an intriguing case for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its federal ownership, recreational purpose, lack of recent inspection, and high hazard potential. The dam's location in Ripley County, Missouri, its construction details, and risk assessment information provide valuable insights into the complexities of managing and maintaining crucial water infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges. Further research and monitoring of this dam's condition and risk management strategies could yield valuable lessons for ensuring the safety and resilience of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
880 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
BRIAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
192 |
Nid Storage |
206 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Current River At Doniphan
|
1570cfs |
Eleven Point River Near Bardley
|
453cfs |
Little Black River Below Fairdealing
|
68cfs |
Current River At Van Buren
|
1050cfs |
Elevenpoint River Near Ravenden Springs
|
545cfs |
Black River At Pocahontas
|
2520cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Deer Leap
|
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Deer Leap Recreation Area
|
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Float Camp Recreation Area
|
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Float Camp
|
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Fourche Lake Recreation Area
|
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Gooseneck
|
Ripley County Lake Dam