Sunrise Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sunrise Big Lake Dam, located in DeSoto, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1961 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 38 feet and a length of 480 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 168 acre-feet, serving as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the area. The dam is regulated by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program in Missouri, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment in 2012, the dam has a high hazard potential, prompting a moderate risk assessment. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 24 feet, and the dam is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 2,229 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area boasts a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 260 acres, offering a picturesque setting for various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the unique features of Sunrise Big Lake Dam, from its stone core foundations to its location along the TR to Joachim Creek. The dam's proximity to nature and its critical role in providing water storage for recreational use make it a valuable asset in the region. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's safety and compliance with regulations, visitors can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Sunrise Big Lake, making it a must-visit destination for those passionate about water resources and conservation.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR TO JOACHIM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

260

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.