Moynihan Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Moynihan Lake 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 | 30 ft (taller than 63.5% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 128 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 80 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 170 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30279 |
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
HAROLD MOYNIHAN
Private
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Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Moynihan Lake Dam?
Moynihan 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 Moynihan Lake Dam?
Moynihan Lake Dam is owned by HAROLD MOYNIHAN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Moynihan Lake Dam built?
Moynihan Lake 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 Moynihan Lake Dam?
Moynihan 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 Moynihan Lake Dam?
Moynihan Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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.