May Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
May Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 20 ft (taller than 7.1% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 193 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 84 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 18 acres |
| Drainage Area | 270 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1976 (50 years old) |
| NID ID | MO20381 |
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
RONALD MAY
Private
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of May Lake Dam?
May 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 May Lake Dam?
May Lake Dam is owned by RONALD MAY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was May Lake Dam built?
May Lake Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 May Lake Dam?
May Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is May Lake Dam?
May Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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.