Big Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 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 | 34 ft (taller than 82.3% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 127 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 80 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30987 |
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
OLIVER CARDEN
Private
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Low Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake 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 Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake Dam is owned by OLIVER CARDEN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Lake Dam built?
Big Lake Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake 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 Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Big Lake Dam last inspected?
Big Lake Dam was last inspected on January 1, 1991. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.