Bella Vista Dam
Key Takeaway
Bella Vista Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 49 ft (taller than 94.7% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 730 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 960 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 960 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 405 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1988 |
| NID ID | MO30211 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
LAKE BELLA VISA INC
Private
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bella Vista Dam?
Bella Vista Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bella Vista Dam?
Bella Vista Dam is owned by LAKE BELLA VISA INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bella Vista Dam built?
Bella Vista Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bella Vista Dam?
Bella Vista Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bella Vista Dam?
Bella Vista Dam has a dam height of 49 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bella Vista Dam last inspected?
Bella Vista Dam was last inspected on December 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.