Lake Trails Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Trails Dam, located in Festus, Missouri, is a privately owned structure designed by Marvin Drury and completed in 1967.


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Summary

The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a height of 46 feet and a length of 550 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 567 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 16 acres, catering to water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The dam is regulated by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program in Missouri, ensuring that it is inspected and maintained regularly to meet safety standards. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection in September 2017. The surrounding area is at moderate risk, but with proper risk management measures in place, Lake Trails Dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

With a scenic location along the TR to Joachim Creek, Lake Trails Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Its uncontrolled spillway and rock foundations add to the natural beauty of the area, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's safety and functionality, Lake Trails Dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature in Jefferson County, Missouri.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

TR TO JOACHIM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

310

Nid Storage

567

Structural Height

46

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

46
       
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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.