Lake Arrowhead Dam

JOHNSON BRANCH MERAMEC RIVER· Franklin, Missouri· Built 1935· Earth· 24 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Arrowhead Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 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 24 ft (taller than 20.3% in MO)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage295 acre-ft
Normal Storage140 acre-ft
Surface Area23 acres
Drainage Area2,100 sq mi
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDMO30572

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 24, 1978
State Regulated: No

Ownership

LAKE ARROWHEAD INC.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Arrowhead Dam?

Lake Arrowhead 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 Lake Arrowhead Dam?

Lake Arrowhead Dam is owned by LAKE ARROWHEAD INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Arrowhead Dam built?

Lake Arrowhead Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Lake Arrowhead Dam?

Lake Arrowhead 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 Lake Arrowhead Dam?

Lake Arrowhead Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Lake Arrowhead Dam last inspected?

Lake Arrowhead Dam was last inspected on August 24, 1978. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.