Lake Tom Sawyer Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Tom Sawyer Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 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 | 25 ft (taller than 23.5% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 37 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | MO10058 |
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
MARK TWAIN STATE PARK
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Lake Tom Sawyer Dam?
Lake Tom Sawyer 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 Tom Sawyer Dam?
Lake Tom Sawyer Dam is owned by MARK TWAIN STATE PARK (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Tom Sawyer Dam built?
Lake Tom Sawyer Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Tom Sawyer Dam?
Lake Tom Sawyer 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 Tom Sawyer Dam?
Lake Tom Sawyer Dam has a dam height of 25 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.