Harper Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Harper Lake Dam, located in French Village, Missouri, was completed in 1978 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam, with a height of 37 feet and a length of 525 feet, creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROGRAM in Missouri and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Harper Lake Dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2007. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates, the dam has been deemed to meet safety guidelines. While it may pose a moderate risk, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities for the surrounding community and visitors alike. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the unique design and purpose of Harper Lake Dam, as well as the efforts taken to ensure its continued safety and operation.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TR GOOSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
308 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big River Below Desloge
|
56cfs |
Big River At Irondale
|
25cfs |
Big River Near Richwoods
|
207cfs |
Mississippi River At Chester
|
96900cfs |
South Fork Saline Creek Near Perryville
|
10cfs |
Little St. Francis River At Fredericktown
|
1cfs |
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.
Harper Lake Dam