Foerster Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in St.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Marys, Missouri, the Foerster Dam is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes. Built in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 241 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Johns Creek and covers a drainage area of 820 acres, providing a surface area of 18 acres for recreational activities.
Despite its recreational focus, the Foerster Dam has a high hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition. The dam does not have a designated spillway and its emergency action plan status is unknown. With its earth construction and buttress core type, the dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental risk management in a rural setting in Missouri.
As a privately-owned structure, the Foerster Dam offers a unique perspective on the management and regulation of dams in the state. While it may not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, the dam's high hazard potential underscores the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness. For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, the Foerster Dam provides a case study in balancing recreational benefits with safety considerations in a rural water infrastructure setting.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
JOHNS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
820 |
Nid Storage |
241 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Foerster Dam