Lake Lotawana Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Lotawana Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 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 | 58 ft (taller than 97% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 1,650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 11.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 480 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,111 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1993 |
| NID ID | MO20040 |
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
LAKE LOTAWANA DEV.CORP
Private
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High Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Lotawana Dam?
Lake Lotawana 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 Lotawana Dam?
Lake Lotawana Dam is owned by LAKE LOTAWANA DEV.CORP (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Lotawana Dam built?
Lake Lotawana Dam was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Lotawana Dam?
Lake Lotawana 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 Lotawana Dam?
Lake Lotawana Dam has a dam height of 58 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 Lotawana Dam last inspected?
Lake Lotawana Dam was last inspected on August 24, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.