Nims Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nims Lake Dam in Fredericktown, Missouri, is a privately owned structure designed by Parcel and Assoc., Sverdrup, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 57 feet and has a capacity of 6280 acre-feet, serving both recreational and water supply purposes. The dam sits on Wills Branch, within the St. Louis District, and is regulated by the Missouri Dam and Reservoir Safety Program.

With a surface area of 225 acres and a drainage area of 3200 acres, Nims Lake Dam has a maximum discharge of 4083 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 90 feet. The dam's hazard potential is deemed high, although its condition assessment as of December 2007 was satisfactory. It undergoes inspections every three years, with the last one conducted in May 2017, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Overall, Nims Lake Dam provides a crucial source of recreation and water supply in the region, while also posing potential risks that necessitate regular monitoring and maintenance. Its strategic location in Madison County, Missouri, highlights its importance in managing water resources and climate resilience efforts. Enthusiasts and stakeholders in water resource management and climate adaptation can appreciate the significance of Nims Lake Dam in balancing water supply needs with recreational opportunities in the area.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

WILLS BRANCH

Surface Area

225

Drainage Area

3200

Nid Storage

6280

Structural Height

57

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

57
       
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.