Hayes Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dillon Lake Dam Essie Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hayes Lake Dam, located in Maries County, Missouri, serves as a crucial irrigation source for the surrounding area.
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Summary
This private earth dam has a height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 50 acre-feet. While primarily used for irrigation purposes, the dam also provides fire protection, supports stock or small fish ponds, and offers recreational opportunities for the community.
With a significant hazard potential, Hayes Lake Dam falls under the ownership and jurisdiction of a private entity, with no state regulation or inspection. Despite its condition being labeled as "Not Rated," the dam's purpose and impact on the local water resources make it a vital structure to monitor and ensure its safety and functionality. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Hayes Lake in managing water supply and supporting agricultural activities is crucial for sustainable water resource management in the region.
The Kansas City District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the dam, although no specific federal agency involvement or funding is indicated. The lack of recent inspection dates and information on emergency preparedness raise concerns about the dam's overall risk management and readiness for potential hazards. As advocates for responsible water resource management, staying informed about the condition and operations of dams like Hayes Lake Dam is essential to ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Height |
30 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
130 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bourbeuse River Near High Gate
|
2cfs |
Little Piney Creek At Newburg
|
82cfs |
Meramec River Near Steelville
|
244cfs |
Gasconade River At Jerome
|
944cfs |
Meramec River At Cook Station
|
47cfs |
Gasconade River Near Rich Fountain
|
1030cfs |
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.
Hayes Lake Dam