Ward Lake Dam-Sec 13 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ward Lake Dam-Sec 13, also known as Virgil Ward Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Papinsville, Missouri.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1972, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, serving primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The dam holds a normal storage capacity of 99 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres, with a drainage area of 35 square miles.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Ward Lake Dam-Sec 13 is not currently regulated or inspected by the state authorities in Missouri. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet, and no outlet gates for controlled water release. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is considered to have some vulnerabilities that may pose a potential threat in the event of a failure. However, the condition of Ward Lake Dam-Sec 13 is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation and monitoring to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIAMI CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
35 |
Nid Storage |
133 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Ward Lake Dam-Sec 13