Wensler Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cowan Lake Dam Holmes Family Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wensler Lake Dam, located in Maries County, Missouri, is a private-owned earth dam that was completed in 1960 primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet, the dam provides a surface area of 8 acres for water-based activities. Situated on a tributary to Little Bourbeuse Creek, the dam is managed by the private owner and is not regulated or inspected by state agencies.
Despite its low hazard potential, Wensler Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and emergency action plans have not been prepared or updated. The dam's risk assessment, management measures, and inundation maps are also lacking, indicating a need for improved safety protocols and emergency preparedness. While the dam serves as a recreational destination, there is a potential for increased safety measures and regulatory oversight to ensure the continued protection of the surrounding area and downstream communities.
As an enthusiast of water resources and climate, Wensler Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for examining the balance between recreational benefits and the need for proper dam safety protocols. The dam's location in a rural area of Missouri, combined with its limited oversight and lack of comprehensive risk assessment, highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance practices to mitigate potential hazards. By delving into the specifics of Wensler Lake Dam's management and regulatory framework, enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the complexities of ensuring both public safety and recreational access in dam infrastructure projects.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR TO LITTLE BOURBEUSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
200 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bourbeuse River Near High Gate
|
2cfs |
Gasconade River Near Rich Fountain
|
1030cfs |
Meramec River Near Steelville
|
244cfs |
Little Piney Creek At Newburg
|
82cfs |
Gasconade River At Jerome
|
944cfs |
Meramec River At Cook Station
|
47cfs |
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.
Wensler Lake Dam