Ripley County Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Ripley County Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 49% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 880 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 206 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 192 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 184 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30053 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USDA FS
Federal Government
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High Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ripley County Lake Dam?
Ripley County Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Ripley County Lake Dam?
Ripley County Lake Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ripley County Lake Dam built?
Ripley County Lake Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Ripley County Lake Dam?
Ripley County 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 Ripley County Lake Dam?
Ripley County Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Ripley County Lake Dam last inspected?
Ripley County Lake Dam was last inspected on August 9, 1979. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.