Rainey Lake Dam

TR-SHORT CREEK· Jasper, Missouri· Built 1952· Earth· 14 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Rainey Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 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 14 ft (taller than 1.4% in MO)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage90 acre-ft
Normal Storage50 acre-ft
Surface Area12 acres
Drainage Area2,200 sq mi
Year Completed1952 (74 years old)
NID IDMO20267

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 29, 1980
State Regulated: No

Ownership

LANDRETH REALTY CO.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rainey Lake Dam?

Rainey 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 Rainey Lake Dam?

Rainey Lake Dam is owned by LANDRETH REALTY CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rainey Lake Dam built?

Rainey Lake Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Rainey Lake Dam?

Rainey 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 Rainey Lake Dam?

Rainey Lake Dam has a dam height of 14 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 Rainey Lake Dam last inspected?

Rainey Lake Dam was last inspected on May 29, 1980. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.