Rainbow Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Rainbow Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 42 ft (taller than 91% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 240 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 64 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,154 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | MO20394 |
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
PAUL OLIVE
State Government
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High Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow Lake Dam is owned by PAUL OLIVE (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rainbow Lake Dam built?
Rainbow Lake Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rainbow Lake Dam?
Rainbow Lake Dam has a dam height of 42 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 Rainbow Lake Dam last inspected?
Rainbow Lake Dam was last inspected on January 28, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.