Cates Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cates Lake Dam in Leadwood, Missouri, stands as a testament to nature's ability to provide a recreational haven while maintaining a low hazard potential.
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Summary
This privately owned Earth dam, completed in 1961, offers 212 acre-feet of storage for the surrounding area, with a primary purpose of recreation. Its core type of Buttress and unknown foundation type contribute to its structural height of 33 feet and normal storage capacity of 116 acre-feet.
Located on TR-LOST CREEK in Washington County, the dam's condition is currently not rated, indicating a need for further assessment to ensure its long-term integrity. With no state regulation or inspection in place, it becomes crucial for private owners to take responsibility for the dam's maintenance and upkeep to mitigate any potential risks. Despite its low hazard potential, the lack of recent inspection data highlights the importance of regular monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety of both the dam and the community it serves.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like Cates Lake Dam in providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding against potential hazards. By staying informed about the condition of such dams and advocating for their proper maintenance, we can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources and the protection of our environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LOST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
140 |
Nid Storage |
212 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Cates Lake Dam