Valle Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Valle Lake Dam, located in Jefferson, Missouri, stands as a vital structure for the region, serving the primary purpose of recreation since its completion in 1955.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Designed by Edwin Lucas, this earth dam with a stone core sits at a height of 39 feet and spans 820 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Fletcher Branch, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water activities on its 43-acre surface area.

Despite its recreational appeal, Valle Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. The Missouri Dam and Reservoir Safety Program oversees its regulation, permitting, and enforcement, with the last inspection conducted in October 2017 revealing a satisfactory condition assessment. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan is continuously reviewed and updated to meet safety guidelines, reflecting the commitment to managing potential risks and ensuring public safety in the event of an emergency.

Valle Lake Dam's significance extends beyond its recreational value, serving as a critical water resource and climate feature in the region. As a privately owned structure, its role in water management and flood control underscores the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to safeguard the surrounding communities. With its rich history and ongoing commitment to safety measures, Valle Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for a sustainable future.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

FLETCHER BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

43

Drainage Area

1900

Nid Storage

800

Structural Height

39

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

39
       
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.