Lake Scioto Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Scioto Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 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 | 44 ft (taller than 92% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 216 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 162 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 74 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30097 |
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
CITY OF ST. JAMES
Private
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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Scioto Dam?
Lake Scioto 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 Scioto Dam?
Lake Scioto Dam is owned by CITY OF ST. JAMES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Scioto Dam built?
Lake Scioto Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Scioto Dam?
Lake Scioto 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 Scioto Dam?
Lake Scioto Dam has a dam height of 44 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 Scioto Dam last inspected?
Lake Scioto Dam was last inspected on January 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.