Bill Johnson Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: George Emberry Dam Cass's Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bill Johnson Lake, located in Barton County, Missouri, is a private fish and wildlife pond built in 1973 with a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife activities.
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Summary
The earth dam, standing at 24 feet tall and stretching 531 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 81 acre-feet and covers an area of 1.6 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the lake serves as a recreational spot for visitors and offers irrigation options for surrounding areas.
The lake is situated along the TR-North Fork Spring River and is managed by private owners. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been inspected recently, but is deemed to be in satisfactory condition. The spillway, measuring 70 feet in width, is uncontrolled, allowing excess water to flow out during periods of high discharge. Although the lake lacks outlet gates, it remains a valuable resource for the local ecosystem and provides a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Overall, Bill Johnson Lake serves as a vital habitat for various wildlife species and offers a tranquil environment for recreational activities. Its strategic location near the Spring River makes it an ideal spot for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While the dam poses a moderate risk, its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With its scenic beauty and ecological significance, Bill Johnson Lake continues to be a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
531 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH FORK SPRING RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
19.2 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Bill Johnson Lake