Rothwell Lake Dam

TRIBUTARY TO SWEET SPRING CRK· Randolph, Missouri· Built 1902· Earth· 29 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Rothwell Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 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 29 ft (taller than 59.6% in MO)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage403 acre-ft
Normal Storage156 acre-ft
Surface Area26 acres
Drainage Area458 sq mi
Year Completed1902 (124 years old)
NID IDMO10004

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: June 14, 1979
State Regulated: No

Ownership

MOBERLY PARKS & RECREATN

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rothwell Lake Dam?

Rothwell 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 Rothwell Lake Dam?

Rothwell Lake Dam is owned by MOBERLY PARKS & RECREATN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rothwell Lake Dam built?

Rothwell Lake Dam was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Rothwell Lake Dam?

Rothwell Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Rothwell Lake Dam?

Rothwell Lake Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Rothwell Lake Dam last inspected?

Rothwell Lake Dam was last inspected on June 14, 1979. 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.