Nichols Lake
Key Takeaway
Nichols Lake is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 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 | 40 ft (taller than 89.7% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Year Completed | 1981 (45 years old) |
| NID ID | MO41016 |
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
RICK J & SHONNNA S NICHOLS
Private
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High Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nichols Lake?
Nichols Lake 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 Nichols Lake?
Nichols Lake is owned by RICK J & SHONNNA S NICHOLS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nichols Lake built?
Nichols Lake was completed in 1981, making it 45 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 Nichols Lake?
Nichols Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nichols Lake?
Nichols Lake has a dam height of 40 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 Nichols Lake last inspected?
Nichols Lake was last inspected on September 24, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.