Southwest Missouri
Stockton Dam controls the Sac River below the lake
Stockton Dam impounds the Sac River to form Stockton Lake, and releases from the dam shape the river downstream, so lake levels and downstream flows in this part of the county are governed by how the Corps operates the dam
Stockton Lake sits behind Stockton Dam, which holds back the Sac River. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers owns and operates the dam, and its Kansas City District is in charge.
The dam does more than one job. It helps with flood control, makes electricity, and supports recreation like fishing and boating. Because of those jobs, the lake does not stay at one fixed level. It can rise and fall as rain comes in and as the Corps lets water out through the dam.
For you in Cedar County, this is practical. How much water moves down the Sac River below the dam, and how high the lake sits, both depend on how the Corps runs it. For current lake levels, releases, or flood guidance, check with the Corps of Engineers Kansas City District.
Where to see it
- Stockton Lake
Use USACE for dam, lake, water-management, and recreation information.
- Stockton Dam and Reservoir water data
Use USACE water data for current reservoir and dam readings.
References
More from Cedar County: browse every local note for the county.
Last checked against the sources above: June 20, 2026.