Coles Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Coles Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 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 | 37 ft (taller than 87.2% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 1,370 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 605 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 445 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 42 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1993 |
| NID ID | MO30440 |
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
TRUSTEES OF COLE LAKE
Private
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High Hazard 73 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Coles Lake Dam?
Coles 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 Coles Lake Dam?
Coles Lake Dam is owned by TRUSTEES OF COLE LAKE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Coles Lake Dam built?
Coles Lake Dam was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Coles Lake Dam?
Coles 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 Coles Lake Dam?
Coles Lake Dam has a dam height of 37 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 Coles Lake Dam last inspected?
Coles Lake Dam was last inspected on October 13, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.