Lake Marian Dam

TR-BIG BOTTOM CREEK· Ste. Genevieve, Missouri· Built 1974· Earth· 34 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Marian Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 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 34 ft (taller than 82.3% in MO)
Dam Length540 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage195 acre-ft
Normal Storage151 acre-ft
Surface Area13 acres
Drainage Area177 sq mi
Max Discharge162 cfs
Year Completed1974 (52 years old)
NID IDMO30655

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: July 26, 1988
State Regulated: No

Ownership

LAKE FOREST ESTATES

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Marian Dam?

Lake Marian 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 Marian Dam?

Lake Marian Dam is owned by LAKE FOREST ESTATES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Marian Dam built?

Lake Marian Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Marian Dam?

Lake Marian 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 Marian Dam?

Lake Marian Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Marian Dam last inspected?

Lake Marian Dam was last inspected on July 26, 1988. 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.