Kelsey Lake Dam, located in Buchanan County, Missouri, is a privately owned structure primarily designed for flood risk reduction along the Candy Creek. Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at 27 feet high and stretches 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam serves multiple purposes including grade stabilization and recreation, making it a vital asset for the local community.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Kelsey Lake Dam is currently not rated for its condition but is deemed to meet guidelines for emergency action plans. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and no outlet gates, emphasizing its simplistic yet effective design. While it may not be heavily monitored by state agencies, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area, showcasing the importance of private ownership in water resource management.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Kelsey Lake Dam an intriguing case study, highlighting the intersection of private ownership, flood risk reduction, and community resilience. Despite its unregulated status, the dam's strategic location and design make it a valuable asset for managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, the role of dams like Kelsey Lake in safeguarding communities and ecosystems becomes increasingly significant.