Hermit Hollow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Hermit Hollow Lake Dam, located in St.


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Summary

Charles, Missouri, is a private earth dam completed in 1962 with a primary purpose of recreation. The dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet, providing water for various recreational activities on the 9-acre surface area of the lake. Despite being privately owned, the dam is not regulated or inspected by the state, posing a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being "Not Rated."

Although the dam has not been inspected since 1979 and lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), it remains a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of Lartto Creek. With a drainage area of 249 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage for the surrounding region. However, the lack of recent inspections and updated emergency protocols raise concerns about the safety and resilience of Hermit Hollow Lake Dam in the face of potential climate-related challenges.

As a recreational site nestled in the heart of Franklin County, Missouri, Hermit Hollow Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment of water resources and the importance of responsible management and maintenance. Enthusiasts drawn to this picturesque location should be mindful of the dam's high hazard potential and the need for ongoing monitoring and risk assessment to ensure the safety and sustainability of this beloved water feature in the region.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

LARTTO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

249

Nid Storage

159

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.