Lake Primrose Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Primrose Dam, nestled in the picturesque surroundings of St.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Francois, Missouri, is a private-owned recreational structure that stands as a vital water resource in the region. Completed in 1971, this Earth dam with a Buttress core type boasts a height of 53 feet and a length of 700 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 608 acre-feet. With a surface area of 30 acres and a drainage area of 545 square miles, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure activities along the Primrose Creek.

Managed by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG of Missouri, Lake Primrose Dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential but maintains a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam's spillway, with a width of 10 feet, is of the uncontrolled type, allowing for the controlled release of excess water to prevent flooding downstream. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment taking place in July 2017, ensuring the safety and stability of the dam for the surrounding community.

While the risk assessment for Lake Primrose Dam is rated as moderate, the dam continues to provide essential recreational opportunities, water storage, and flood control benefits to the region. With its scenic beauty and functional design, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in maintaining the ecological balance of the area.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

PRIMROSE CREEK

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

545

Nid Storage

608

Structural Height

60

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

60
       
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.