Lac Michel Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lac Darcie Dam Lac Bergerac Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Lac Michel Dam, located in St.
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Summary
Francois, Missouri, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1971 primarily for recreational purposes. Standing at a height of 41 feet and stretching 645 feet in length, this dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 99 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 10 acres for water recreation activities. The dam regulates the flow of the TR Big River and has a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment in 2007 deemed it satisfactory.
Managed by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri, Lac Michel Dam has state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement for its operations. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate (3), with no designated emergency action plan (EAP) currently in place. The last inspection in November 2017 indicated a satisfactory condition, but with the need for periodic monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this important water resource structure in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lac Michel Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of engineering, recreation, and environmental management in the context of dam safety and regulation.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
645 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
TR BIG RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
58 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Lac Michel Dam