Byers Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Byers Lake in Ralls County, Missouri, is a private fish and wildlife pond constructed in 1978 for grade stabilization purposes.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet, with a hydraulic height of 27 feet, and a structural height of 29 feet, providing a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 275.2 square miles, Byers Lake serves as a vital habitat for local wildlife and contributes to the conservation efforts in the area.

Managed by the St. Louis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Byers Lake boasts a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 22 feet. Despite its condition being labeled as "Not Rated," the lake continues to play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity in the region. Although not open to public use, Byers Lake remains an essential resource for water management and wildlife preservation efforts in the area.

Located in the city of Louisiana, Missouri, Byers Lake is nestled along the TR-SPENCER CREEK, offering a picturesque site for nature enthusiasts and climate advocates. With a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond, this serene oasis contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem and provides a valuable recreational space for various species. As a prime example of sustainable water resource management, Byers Lake stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and protecting our natural environment for future generations to come.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-SPENCER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

275.2

Nid Storage

42

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.