Burns Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burns Lake Dam, located in Warsaw, Missouri, serves multiple purposes including grade stabilization, fire protection, and recreational activities.


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Summary

Constructed in 1971, this private earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 203 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-FOOT CREEK and spans 560 feet in length, providing essential drainage and flood control for the surrounding area.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Burns Lake Dam has been rated as having a moderate risk level. With an uncontrolled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 366 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating potential risks. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, efforts to ensure its safety and functionality are ongoing, although its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Burns Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure, balancing various purposes while contributing to the local ecosystem and community. As a key feature in the landscape of Henry County, Missouri, the dam's maintenance and monitoring are essential to safeguarding both the environment and nearby residents against potential hazards and emergencies.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-FOOT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

390.4

Nid Storage

203

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.