Ethel Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Ethel Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 53 ft (taller than 95.9% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 258 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 230 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | MO10055 |
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
BNSF RAILWAY CO.
Private
Nearby Dams
Ed'S Lake A Dam
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High Hazard 43 ftAllard Dam
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Low Hazard 35 ftHutchison Dam
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Low Hazard 27 ftEd'S Lake B Dam
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High Hazard 48 ftReinhart Dam
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Low Hazard 26 ftAtha Dam
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Low Hazard 30 ftMorris Dam
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Low Hazard 24 ftHofco Farms Dam
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Low Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ethel Lake Dam?
Ethel 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 Ethel Lake Dam?
Ethel Lake Dam is owned by BNSF RAILWAY CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ethel Lake Dam built?
Ethel Lake Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Ethel Lake Dam?
Ethel Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ethel Lake Dam?
Ethel Lake Dam has a dam height of 53 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 Ethel Lake Dam last inspected?
Ethel Lake Dam was last inspected on September 27, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.