Lac Lafitte Dam
Key Takeaway
Lac Lafitte Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 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 | 55 ft (taller than 96.3% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 680 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 555 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,065 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1977 (49 years old) |
| NID ID | MO31176 |
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
TERRE DU LAC, INC
Private
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High Hazard 97 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lac Lafitte Dam?
Lac Lafitte 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 Lac Lafitte Dam?
Lac Lafitte Dam is owned by TERRE DU LAC, INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lac Lafitte Dam built?
Lac Lafitte Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Lac Lafitte Dam?
Lac Lafitte 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 Lac Lafitte Dam?
Lac Lafitte Dam has a dam height of 55 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 Lac Lafitte Dam last inspected?
Lac Lafitte Dam was last inspected on December 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.