Norman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Norman Lake Dam, located in Taylor, Missouri, serves as a vital structure for fish and wildlife conservation within the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this private Earth-type dam stands at 26 feet in height and spans 500 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet for the North Fabius River. With a primary purpose of creating a fish and wildlife pond, the dam also serves for fire protection, grade stabilization, and recreational activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Norman Lake Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating due to its age and condition being not rated. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet, and no outlet gates for water regulation. With a drainage area of 236 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Although not state-regulated, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are not currently rated or updated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity for the surrounding community.

With its picturesque setting and significance for local wildlife, Norman Lake Dam stands as a notable landmark in Schuyler County, Missouri. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of this dam in balancing ecological needs with human activities underscores the delicate balance required to sustainably manage our natural resources. As we look towards the future, ongoing assessments and risk management measures will be essential to safeguard the integrity of Norman Lake Dam and its surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH FABIUS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

236

Nid Storage

64

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.