Little Bear Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Little Bear Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 | 32 ft (taller than 76.3% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 120 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 75 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30533 |
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 VIEW HOME OWNERS
Private
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High Hazard 43 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Little Bear Lake Dam?
Little Bear Lake 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 Little Bear Lake Dam?
Little Bear Lake Dam is owned by LAKE VIEW HOME OWNERS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Little Bear Lake Dam built?
Little Bear Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Little Bear Lake Dam?
Little Bear Lake 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 Little Bear Lake Dam?
Little Bear Lake Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Little Bear Lake Dam last inspected?
Little Bear Lake Dam was last inspected on October 28, 1980. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.