Headache Lake Dam

TR-MIDDLE RIVER· Callaway, Missouri· Built 1971· Earth· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Headache Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 13.3% in MO)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage91 acre-ft
Normal Storage91 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area19 sq mi
Max Discharge475 cfs
Year Completed1971 (55 years old)
NID IDMO10879

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: No

Ownership

DAVID LYONS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Headache Lake Dam?

Headache Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Headache Lake Dam?

Headache Lake Dam is owned by DAVID LYONS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Headache Lake Dam built?

Headache Lake 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 Headache Lake Dam?

Headache Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Headache Lake Dam?

Headache Lake Dam has a dam height of 21 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.