Little Bear Lake Dam, located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TR-CAPE LA CROIX river and covers a surface area of 7 acres, with a drainage area of 75 square miles.
Despite being privately owned, Little Bear Lake Dam has a high hazard potential, indicating the potential risk associated with its failure. However, the condition assessment is currently not rated, and the last inspection was conducted in 1980. The dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, suggesting potential limitations for effective water management. With its scenic location and recreational purpose, this dam serves as an important feature in the local landscape but also raises concerns about its safety and maintenance.
As a significant site for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, Little Bear Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human activity and natural resources. With its design as an earth dam with buttress core types, the dam's construction and management reflect the balance between water recreation and environmental conservation. While its high hazard potential raises concerns, the lack of recent inspections and condition assessments calls for increased scrutiny and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of this important water resource in Missouri.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CAPE LA CROIX |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
75 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |