Rusk Lake Dam

TR-MEDICINE CREEK· Sullivan, Missouri· Built 1976· Earth· 25 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Rusk Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 25 ft (taller than 23.5% in MO)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage120 acre-ft
Normal Storage75 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area80 sq mi
Year Completed1976 (50 years old)
NID IDMO11076

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
State Regulated: No

Ownership

STRONG & STEWART FARMS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rusk Lake Dam?

Rusk 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 Rusk Lake Dam?

Rusk Lake Dam is owned by STRONG & STEWART FARMS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rusk Lake Dam built?

Rusk Lake Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 Rusk Lake Dam?

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

How tall is Rusk Lake Dam?

Rusk Lake Dam has a dam height of 25 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.

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.