Lac Benet Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Lac Benet Dam, located in St.


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Summary

Francois, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes. Completed in 1970, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 450 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 62 acre-feet, the dam sits on the TR-Big River, under the jurisdiction of the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri.

Despite its high hazard potential, Lac Benet Dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition as of December 2007. Regular inspections, with a frequency of 3 years, ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 60 feet wide, helps manage potential overflow, while the dam's maximum discharge capacity is recorded at 87 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for Lac Benet Dam is rated as moderate, with a risk level of 3 out of 5.

Overall, Lac Benet Dam serves as an important recreational resource for the community, offering opportunities for water-based activities and scenic views. Its maintenance and regulatory oversight ensure that it continues to provide safe and enjoyable experiences for visitors while mitigating potential risks associated with its high hazard potential. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lac Benet Dam represents a unique intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in the context of water management.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-BIG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

51

Nid Storage

93

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.