Elders Lake Dam \(Dry) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Elders Lake Dam (Dry) in Steelville, Missouri, stands as a testament to the rich history of water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this private Earth dam boasts a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 217 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Meramec River, the dam primarily serves recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for visitors looking to enjoy the 14-acre surface area of the lake.
Despite its age, Elders Lake Dam has a high hazard potential, reflecting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam's condition is currently rated as 'Not Rated', there is a lack of regulatory oversight from state agencies, raising concerns about the potential risks associated with the dam's operation. With the surrounding area not being under state jurisdiction, the responsibility for ensuring the safety of the dam falls solely on the private owners.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the complexities of Elders Lake Dam (Dry), the focus shifts towards the need for proactive risk management measures and emergency preparedness. With the absence of a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and limited data on the dam's condition assessment, there is a pressing need for stakeholders to prioritize the safety of the surrounding community and ecosystems. By addressing these critical gaps in oversight and planning, the legacy of Elders Lake Dam can continue to thrive as a valuable resource for recreation while safeguarding against potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MERAMEC RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Drainage Area |
234 |
Nid Storage |
217 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Meramec River Near Steelville
|
244cfs |
Bourbeuse River Near High Gate
|
2cfs |
Meramec River At Cook Station
|
47cfs |
Meramec River Near Sullivan
|
522cfs |
Little Piney Creek At Newburg
|
82cfs |
Gasconade River At Jerome
|
944cfs |
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.
Elders Lake Dam \(Dry)
State Highway 49 Bridge Near Dillard, Missouri To Forest Boundary In Sections 13/24, T38N, R3W
Maramec Springs Trout Park
Huzzah Conservation Area
Crooked Creek Conservation Area