Don Bunton Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Curless Lake Dam George Emberry Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Don Bunton Lake in Barton County, Missouri, is a private fish and wildlife pond built in 1970 with a primary purpose of supporting aquatic life.
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Summary
The earth dam, standing at 17 feet tall and stretching 1033 feet long, holds a maximum storage capacity of 99 acre-feet and covers 3 acres of surface area. The reservoir is fed by TR-Little Drywood Creek and serves irrigation purposes in addition to providing habitat for various wildlife species.
Managed by a private owner, Don Bunton Lake has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. Despite being unregulated by the state and lacking formal inspections, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. The spillway, measuring 30 feet wide, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates or associated structures. The lake's proximity to Kansas City District and its moderate risk level make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of small-scale reservoirs in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
1033 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE DRYWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
192 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Don Bunton Lake