Lake Montowese Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Montowese Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 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 | 54 ft (taller than 96.1% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 606 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 48 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,740 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1942 (84 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1990 |
| NID ID | MO30151 |
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 MONTOWESE CORP
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Lake Montowese Dam?
Lake Montowese 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 Montowese Dam?
Lake Montowese Dam is owned by LAKE MONTOWESE CORP (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Montowese Dam built?
Lake Montowese Dam was completed in 1942, making it 84 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 Montowese Dam?
Lake Montowese 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 Montowese Dam?
Lake Montowese Dam has a dam height of 54 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 Montowese Dam last inspected?
Lake Montowese Dam was last inspected on September 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.