Elam Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Elam Lake Dam, located in Laclede County, Missouri, was completed in 1971 and serves primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Mountain Creek, the dam poses a high hazard potential and its condition assessment is currently not rated. Despite not being regulated by the state agency, the dam attracts water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its scenic location and recreational opportunities.
Although Elam Lake Dam does not fall under state jurisdiction, its importance as a recreational spot cannot be underestimated. The dam offers a surface area of 9 acres and is surrounded by a drainage area of 625 acres, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. While the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment remain unclear, its presence in the beautiful landscape of Eldridge, Missouri, attracts visitors seeking to explore the connection between water resources and climate in a natural setting.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elam Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned structure with significant recreational value in the heart of Missouri. The dam's historical completion in 1971 and its ongoing management without state regulation raise questions about the balance between public safety and private ownership in water resource management. As visitors flock to Elam Lake for leisure and nature appreciation, the dam serves as a focal point for discussions on sustainable water use, climate resilience, and emergency preparedness in a changing environment.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MOUNTAIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
625 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bennett Spring State Park
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Niangua River Oaisis Campground
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Ho-Humm Canoe Rental & Campground
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Niangua River Oaisis Family Campground
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Elam Lake Dam