Gopher Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Gopher Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 28 ft (taller than 54.3% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 599 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 280 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 280 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | MO20031 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MO DEPT OF CONSERVATION
State Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Gopher Lake Dam?
Gopher Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Gopher Lake Dam?
Gopher Lake Dam is owned by MO DEPT OF CONSERVATION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gopher Lake Dam built?
Gopher Lake Dam was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Gopher Lake Dam?
Gopher 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 Gopher Lake Dam?
Gopher Lake Dam has a dam height of 28 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.