Novak Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lerwick Lake Dam Shockley Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Novak Lake Dam, located in Gasconade, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily designed for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1983, this earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and stretches 650 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROGRAM and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3). The condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," suggesting a need for further evaluation. Emergency action plans and guidelines for the dam have not been updated or prepared, indicating potential gaps in emergency response readiness. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 16 square miles, with the dam serving as a key component in managing water resources for the region.
Novak Lake Dam's unique design and purpose make it an important feature in the local ecosystem, providing not only water storage but also fire protection and recreational opportunities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's maintenance and management will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Novak Lake Dam to be a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB DRY FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Novak Lake Dam