Lake Briarwood Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Briarwood Dam in Jefferson, Missouri, is a privately owned structure designed by Paul Shy in 1970 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 65 feet and a length of 1400 feet, the earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 1840 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 71 acres. The dam is regulated and inspected by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri, with a satisfactory condition assessment and a high hazard potential.

Located on BALL BRANCH river, the dam has a drainage area of 794 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 2975 cubic feet per second. With an uncontrolled spillway type and a spillway width of 68 feet, the structure poses a moderate risk, according to assessments. Despite its high hazard potential, Lake Briarwood Dam remains a popular spot for recreational activities, offering visitors a serene environment for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of any unforeseen events.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

BALL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Drainage Area

794

Nid Storage

1840

Structural Height

65

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

65
       
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.