Owl Creek Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Owl Creek Lake Dam, located in St.
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Summary
Francois, Missouri, is a vital structure managed by the local government for water resource management. Designed by DNR LAND REC, this buttress dam spans 550 feet in length and reaches a height of 32 feet, serving to regulate the flow of Owl Creek. With a storage capacity of 137.6 acre-feet, it plays a significant role in maintaining the water supply for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 91.3 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential and currently unrated condition assessment, Owl Creek Lake Dam is subject to regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is located in the Kansas City District and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Missouri. With an inspection frequency of 5 years, this dam is monitored closely to prevent any potential risks or hazards and to uphold the safety of the community and environment it serves.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Owl Creek Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and water management. Its role in regulating Owl Creek and storing water for the region highlights the importance of such structures in ensuring water availability and safety. With its unique design and local government ownership, Owl Creek Lake Dam stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the Missouri landscape, demonstrating the interconnectedness of water resources and human development.
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
OWL CREEK |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
2850 |
Nid Storage |
137.6 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Owl Creek Lake Dam