Sun Fish Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Sun Fish Lake Dam, located in Pacific, Missouri, serves as a hub for recreational activities in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this private earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 19 square miles, the dam provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities.

Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Sun Fish Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential. However, its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a designated inspection frequency, posing potential risks for the surrounding community in the event of a structural failure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sun Fish Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in balancing recreational benefits with potential safety concerns. As a privately owned structure with limited oversight, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate risks associated with dam failures. Its location in the Kansas City District, with a nearby river or stream leading to Dutch Creek, underscores the interconnected nature of water resources in the region and the need for proactive management to ensure sustainable use for future generations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR TO DUTCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

19

Nid Storage

91

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.