Coles Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wahoo Lake Dam Silver Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Coles Lake Dam, located in Bonne Terre, Missouri, was completed in 1948 and serves as a crucial structure for both recreation and water resource management.
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Summary
The dam, primarily made of earth and stone, stands at a height of 37 feet and spans a length of 1370 feet. With a storage capacity of 605 acre-feet and a surface area of 42 acres, the dam plays a vital role in regulating the flow of water from TR TIFF CREEK and covers a drainage area of 774 acres.
Despite its age, Coles Lake Dam has been consistently inspected by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG, with the last assessment conducted in November 2015. The dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential, but its condition was assessed as satisfactory in December 2007. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is considered to be in need of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and residents. As a private structure, Coles Lake Dam remains under state jurisdiction and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement actions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Coles Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study of a historic structure that continues to play a vital role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities. As efforts to mitigate climate change and enhance water security intensify, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Coles Lake Dam becomes increasingly evident. By staying informed about the condition and management of such critical infrastructure, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable stewardship of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
1370 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR TIFF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
42 |
Drainage Area |
774 |
Nid Storage |
605 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big River Below Desloge
|
59cfs |
Big River Near Richwoods
|
221cfs |
Big River At Irondale
|
27cfs |
Big River At Byrnesville
|
241cfs |
Meramec River Near Sullivan
|
522cfs |
Meramec River At Pacific
|
786cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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