Lake Avalon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Avalon Dam, located in St.


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Summary

Francois County, Missouri, was completed in 1939 for the primary purpose of recreation. This privately owned dam spans the St. Francis River and stands at a structural height of 30 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 273 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, although its condition assessment has not been rated since its last inspection in 1981.

Despite its age, Lake Avalon Dam continues to serve as a popular spot for water enthusiasts and climate lovers alike. The dam's serene surroundings and ample surface area of 17 acres provide a picturesque setting for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. However, with no state regulation, inspection, or enforcement in place, the responsibility for the dam's safety and maintenance falls solely on its private owners.

As water resource and climate advocates monitor the condition of Lake Avalon Dam, the need for a comprehensive risk assessment and emergency action plan becomes increasingly evident. With no recent updates on emergency preparedness or risk management measures, there is a growing concern about the potential consequences of a dam failure in this area. As enthusiasts continue to enjoy the beauty of Lake Avalon, there is a call for increased oversight and proactive measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this beloved recreational spot.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR ST FRANCIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

1100

Nid Storage

273

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.