Hopkins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Hopkins Lake Dam, located in Racola, Missouri, was completed in 1991 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This private earth dam with a height of 30 feet sits on the tributary to Old Mines Creek and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. With a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 320 square miles, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, and its condition has not been officially assessed.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Hopkins Lake Dam is an important feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region. Its tranquil setting and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. The dam's low hazard potential and unlisted foundation type suggest a stable structure that contributes to the local ecosystem and water management efforts.

While lacking detailed information on its inspection and emergency preparedness measures, Hopkins Lake Dam still stands as a valuable asset in Washington County, Missouri. Its construction and purpose signify a balance between human recreation and environmental conservation, making it an intriguing site for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TRIB TO OLD MINES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

320

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.