King Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
King Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 40 ft (taller than 89.7% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 1,920 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 184 acres |
| Drainage Area | 19 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13,514 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | MO10384 |
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
MO DEPT OF CONSERVATION
Local Government
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of King Lake Dam?
King 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 King Lake Dam?
King Lake Dam is owned by MO DEPT OF CONSERVATION (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was King Lake Dam built?
King 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 King Lake Dam?
King Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is King Lake Dam?
King Lake Dam has a dam height of 40 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 King Lake Dam last inspected?
King Lake Dam was last inspected on March 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.