Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Lake Dam, located in Crawford, Missouri, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the intersection of water resource management and recreational opportunities.


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Summary

Built in 1968, this private earth dam, with a height of 34 feet and a storage capacity of 127 acre-feet, primarily serves as a recreational site for visitors to enjoy. Situated on the tributary of Cherry Valley Creek, the dam offers a surface area of 7 acres amidst a drainage area of 80 acres.

Despite its age, Big Lake Dam carries a high hazard potential due to its condition being rated as "Not Rated." The last inspection took place in 1991, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With a strong focus on recreation, the dam provides a unique blend of leisure activities and water resource management, attracting enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to its scenic location. In the face of climate change and increasing water scarcity, Big Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource practices and the need for ongoing stewardship of our natural environment.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TRIB-CHERRY VALLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

80

Nid Storage

127

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.