Essen Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Callaway Forks Dam Warvid Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Essen Lake Dam, located in Weldon Springs, Missouri, stands as a vital water resource and recreational hub for the St.
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Summary
Charles County area. Completed in 1980, this earth dam with a buttress core type boasts a height of 50 feet and a length of 560 feet, providing a storage capacity of 973 acre-feet and a surface area of 72 acres. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering locals and visitors a picturesque setting for activities like fishing, boating, and hiking.
Managed by a private owner, Essen Lake Dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its satisfactory condition. With a high hazard potential but a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are crucial for mitigating potential threats and ensuring public safety in case of emergencies. The dam's proximity to the Femme Osage River and its drainage area of 918 square miles further highlight its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Essen Lake Dam's presence as a key water infrastructure in Missouri underscores the intersection of environmental conservation and recreational opportunities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of maintaining this dam and its surrounding ecosystem is vital for promoting sustainable practices and safeguarding the local community's well-being in the face of changing climate patterns and potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
FEMME OSAGE |
Surface Area |
72 |
Drainage Area |
918 |
Nid Storage |
973 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Essen Lake Dam
Katy Trail 1800, Saint Charles County