Wales Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Wales Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 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 | 20 ft (taller than 7.1% in MO) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 140 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | MO10524 |
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
MRS RUSSEL WALES
Private
Nearby Dams
Greystone Lake
Buchanan, MO
High Hazard 37 ftPeterson Lake Dam 001
Andrew, MO
Low Hazard 26 ftKelsey Lake Dam
Buchanan, MO
Low Hazard 27 ftWoodbury Lake Dam
Buchanan, MO
Low Hazard 32 ftLakeland Estates Lake Dam
Andrew, MO
High Hazard 25 ftConnie Field
Andrew, MO
Low Hazard 32 ftBuckles Dam No. 1
Buchanan, MO
Low Hazard 31 ftNorman George Lake
Buchanan, MO
Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wales Lake Dam?
Wales 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 Wales Lake Dam?
Wales Lake Dam is owned by MRS RUSSEL WALES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wales Lake Dam built?
Wales Lake Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Wales Lake Dam?
Wales 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 Wales Lake Dam?
Wales Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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.