Commandeer Fishing Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Commandeer Fishing Lake Dam, located in Independence, Missouri, was completed in 1956 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 26 feet, serves as a barrier along the TR-Little Blue River, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 5 acres and has a drainage area of 140 square miles, making it a vital resource for water management in the region.

Despite its importance, Commandeer Fishing Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a designated emergency action plan in place, raising concerns about its readiness for potential disasters. Given its critical role in water storage and recreation, there is a need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and functionality of this structure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

As part of the Kansas City District, Commandeer Fishing Lake Dam stands as a federal-owned structure overseen by the US Army Corps of Engineers. With its unique design and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for ongoing maintenance and risk assessment to protect both the environment and the community it serves.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE BLUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

140

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.