M Hoefer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

M Hoefer Lake Dam, located in Lafayette County, Missouri, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1976, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam also serves multiple purposes including fire protection, grade stabilization, irrigation, and recreation, making it a versatile asset for the community.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, M Hoefer Lake Dam is a well-maintained structure that provides essential water management for the Tabo Creek watershed. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 25 feet wide, ensures efficient water flow during periods of heavy rainfall. Despite not being regulated by the state or federal agencies, the dam remains in good condition and continues to support the surrounding ecosystem.

Although not currently rated for condition assessment, M Hoefer Lake Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in the region. With its primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife populations, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. As a private-owned structure, it exemplifies the importance of community-driven conservation efforts in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-TABO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

76.8

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.