Vance Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Neville Dam Moore Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Vance Lake Dam, located in Madison County, Missouri, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1980 with a height of 34 feet and a storage capacity of 215 acre-feet.
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Summary
The dam, situated on the Castor River, serves as a significant water resource in the region, contributing to flood control and downstream water supply management. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
With a surface area of 14 acres and a drainage area of 404 square miles, Vance Lake Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and preventing potential hazards. The dam's significant hazard potential underscores the need for effective risk management measures and emergency preparedness. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its design as an earth dam with buttress core types reflects a sturdy and reliable structure that has stood the test of time.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Vance Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and its impact on local ecosystems and communities. Its presence on the Castor River contributes to the resilience of the region's water management systems, showcasing the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human use and protecting the environment from potential risks. Continuing to monitor and assess the dam's condition will be crucial in ensuring its long-term effectiveness in serving the surrounding area's water needs.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
CASTOR RIVEW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
404 |
Nid Storage |
215 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Vance Lake Dam