Lake Turner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Turner Dam, located in Dent County, Missouri, is a private Earth dam completed in 1972 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a maximum storage capacity of 274 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 159 acre-feet, this dam on TR Spring Creek offers a surface area of 16 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite its relatively small size, the dam has a high hazard potential, making it crucial for regular inspections to ensure its safety.

The dam, standing at a height of 32 feet, is classified as a Buttress type and is not regulated by the state of Missouri. Although it has not been rated for its current condition, the last inspection conducted in September 1978 highlighted the importance of monitoring its safety measures. With its picturesque location and proximity to Salem, Lake Turner Dam serves as a significant water resource for the local community and a vital spot for climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes.

While the dam's associated structures and spillway details remain unspecified, its presence along TR Spring Creek adds to the beauty and recreational value of the area. As water and climate enthusiasts visit this site, it is essential to acknowledge the potential risks and safety measures associated with such infrastructure. Lake Turner Dam stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment of water resources and the need for responsible management to protect our environment and communities.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

433

Nid Storage

274

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.