Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Crystal Lake Dam, situated in Labarque Creek, Missouri, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this private-owned earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet. With a height of 45 feet and a length of 600 feet, the dam provides critical flood control measures for the surrounding area, while also offering a serene surface area of 5 acres for recreational activities.

Managed by the Dam and Reservoir Safety Program of Missouri, Crystal Lake Dam underwent its last inspection in December 2017 and was rated as having a satisfactory condition. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the risk is mitigated through regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures. The spillway, with a width of 32 feet, is uncontrolled, ensuring efficient water discharge in case of overflow. With Blaine Luetkemeyer (R) as the Congressional representative for the area, regulatory oversight is in place to enforce safety standards and ensure the dam's resilience against climate-related challenges.

In the face of climate change impacts and increasing water resource management challenges, Crystal Lake Dam stands as a beacon of effective infrastructure design and maintenance. With a moderate risk assessment level and a history of compliance with safety regulations, the dam exemplifies the importance of proactive monitoring and risk management in safeguarding communities and ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the story of Crystal Lake Dam serves as a compelling example of sustainable infrastructure development and the integration of recreational and safety benefits for the local region in Jefferson County, Missouri.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TR LA BARQUE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

45

Nid Storage

84

Structural Height

45

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
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.