Temples Lake Dam

TR MAIN DITCH-LITTLE RIVER· Stoddard, Missouri· Built 1974· Earth· 26 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Temples Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 26 ft (taller than 43.5% in MO)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage125 acre-ft
Normal Storage73 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area185 sq mi
Year Completed1974 (52 years old)
NID IDMO40065

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 21, 1979
State Regulated: No

Ownership

KEN TEMPLES

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Temples Lake Dam?

Temples 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 Temples Lake Dam?

Temples Lake Dam is owned by KEN TEMPLES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Temples Lake Dam built?

Temples 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 Temples Lake Dam?

Temples Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Temples Lake Dam?

Temples Lake Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Temples Lake Dam last inspected?

Temples Lake Dam was last inspected on May 21, 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.