Van Meter Dam
Key Takeaway
Van Meter Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 | 60 ft (taller than 97.3% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 394 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 571 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 403 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,182 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1986 |
| NID ID | MO10658 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
MO. DNR PARKS
State Government
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Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Van Meter Dam?
Van Meter 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 Van Meter Dam?
Van Meter Dam is owned by MO. DNR PARKS (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Van Meter Dam built?
Van Meter Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Van Meter Dam?
Van Meter 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 Van Meter Dam?
Van Meter Dam has a dam height of 60 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 Van Meter Dam last inspected?
Van Meter Dam was last inspected on January 27, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.