Rinquelin Trail Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Share Lake Dam Veasmann Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hidden in the heart of Maries County, Missouri, the Rinquelin Trail Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and natural beauty.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1972 by the Missouri Department of Conservation, this state-owned Earth dam towers at a height of 35 feet and spans 800 feet along the picturesque Little Maries River. With a storage capacity of 372 acre-feet and a surface area of 27 acres, Rinquelin Trail Dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also vital water resource management for the surrounding area.
Despite its age, Rinquelin Trail Dam remains in satisfactory condition, as evidenced by its last inspection in December 2017. The dam poses a significant hazard potential, but regular inspections and enforcement by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program ensure its continued safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is actively managed to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community. Additionally, the dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 57 feet, provides an essential mechanism for flood control and water release during times of high discharge.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rinquelin Trail Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Situated in the tranquil city of Brinktown within Maries County, this dam not only serves as a recreational haven but also as a vital component of water management in the region. With its stone core and rock foundation, the dam stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of changing environmental conditions. As climate change continues to impact water resources globally, structures like Rinquelin Trail Dam play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the uncertainties of the future.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE MARIES |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Drainage Area |
580 |
Nid Storage |
372 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gasconade River At Jerome
|
944cfs |
Little Piney Creek At Newburg
|
82cfs |
Big Piney Below Ft. Leonard Wood
|
297cfs |
Osage River Below St. Thomas
|
1450cfs |
Maries River At Westphalia
|
21cfs |
Osage River Near Bagnell
|
1020cfs |
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.
Rinquelin Trail Dam