Deer Run Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Run Lake Dam in Missouri, completed in 1967, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 43 feet and a length of 700 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 559 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 39 acres. Situated on the TR to Little St Francis River in Madison County, the dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG and falls under the jurisdiction of the state.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the dam has a high hazard potential, as indicated by its moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 90 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 8392 cubic feet per second. While the last inspection in 2016 deemed the dam to be in good shape, it is subject to regular monitoring with an inspection frequency of 3 years to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Deer Run Lake Dam serves as an important recreational structure within the St. Louis District. Its presence not only provides a source of leisure for locals but also highlights the critical role of dam safety programs in maintaining the integrity of aging infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the upkeep and monitoring of dams like Deer Run Lake Dam are essential for mitigating risks and ensuring the resilience of our water systems.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

TR TO LITTLE ST FRANCIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Drainage Area

3600

Nid Storage

559

Structural Height

39

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

Deer Run Lake DamLittle St. Francis River at Fredericktown Preview Little St. Francis River At Fredericktown
1.18cfs
1cfs
Deer Run Lake DamSt. Francis River near Mill Creek Preview St. Francis River Near Mill Creek
82.7cfs
83cfs
Deer Run Lake DamSt. Francis River near Saco Preview St. Francis River Near Saco
187.0cfs
187cfs
Deer Run Lake DamBig River below Desloge Preview Big River Below Desloge
58.9cfs
59cfs
Deer Run Lake DamSouth Fork Saline Creek near Perryville Preview South Fork Saline Creek Near Perryville
10.4cfs
10cfs
Deer Run Lake DamBig River at Irondale Preview Big River At Irondale
26.8cfs
27cfs

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.
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Nearby Reservoirs