Whites Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: John Cowan Dam Hendley Lake Dam
Last Updated: January 4, 2026
Whites Lake Dam, located in Grayridge, Missouri, stands as a testament to the power of water resource management and the intersection of human recreation with natural landscapes.
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Summary
Completed in 1971, this earth dam with a buttress core serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene surface area of 9 acres and a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, the dam holds a high hazard potential, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety.
Managed by a private owner, Whites Lake Dam sits on Link Creek in Stoddard County, Missouri, within the jurisdiction of the St. Louis District. The dam's presence not only provides a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors but also contributes to the ecological health of the surrounding area by regulating water flow and supporting wildlife habitats. While not subject to state regulation or inspection, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures to mitigate potential hazards.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the significance of structures like Whites Lake Dam becomes increasingly apparent. With its rich history and vital role in the community, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate. Whether through improved risk management strategies or increased public awareness, the future of Whites Lake Dam and similar structures will depend on proactive efforts to adapt to the evolving challenges of a warming world.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
LINK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
95 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River Ditch No. 1 Near Morehouse
|
108cfs |
Castor River At Zalma
|
173cfs |
St. Francis River At Wappapello
|
244cfs |
Black River At Poplar Bluff
|
598cfs |
Mississippi River At Thebes
|
92300cfs |
St. Francis River Near Patterson
|
237cfs |
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.
Whites Lake Dam