The History Behind Mark Twain Lake
Mark Twain Lake is a massive reservoir in northeast Missouri that stretches across nearly 17,000 acres. It was created in 1982 when the US Army Corps of Engineers constructed the Clarence Cannon Dam across the Salt River. The USACE named the lake after famous author, Mark Twain (also known as Samuel Clemens), who is widely known for his adventurous and humorous stories. The lake is the largest manmade lake in the state of Missouri and is used for boating, fishing, swimming, campgrounds and other recreational activities.
Can You Build On Mark Twain Lake?
It is indeed possible to build structures on Mark Twain Lake. However, it is important to consider that this reservoir is owned and maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). As such, there are strict regulations governing the types of structures that are allowed to be built on the lake. The USACE requires that all new structures must be approved with the USACE permit prior to construction and any structure located on the lake must abide by USACE safety regulations and rules. Additionally, it is important to know that you are only allowed to build in designated areas and that building permits must be obtained prior to building.
The Building Process On Mark Twain Lake
In order to begin construction of any building on Mark Twain Lake, the most important thing to do is contact the USACE. As one of the largest bodies of water in the state of Missouri, they want to ensure that any new structures are built in a safe and secure manner. Once your plans have been approved, you will need to obtain a permit so that you are in compliance to begin construction. Depending on the size and scope of the building, you can contact the USACE to receive a standard, additional, or federal permit. Standard permits are issued for structures and activities such as docks, boathouses, and minor repairs and maintenance. Additional permits are issued for any new structures, developments or expansion activities such as adding new structures and structures approved for single-family homes. Last, Federal permits are required for any structures that will have an impact on the ecological balance or quality of the lake waters.
Costs Of Building On Mark Twain Lake
In terms of the costs associated with building on Mark Twain Lake, those costs vary from project to project. Depending on the size and scope of the project, the USACE will set a cost that is determined by the applicant’s plans. Generally, if any construction will require a Federal permit, the cost of the project will be much greater than a Standard permit. Moreover, if the construction of a structure will be larger than 1,000 square feet, a geotechnical survey and Foundation Testing (FT) will be required. This process and subsequent fees can add significant costs to the project.
The Benefits Of Building On Mark Twain Lake
When building on the lake, there are a variety of benefits to consider. Because it is a man-made lake, the waters are clear and full of vegetation with plenty of fish and other wildlife. It is also aesthetically pleasing and offers wonderful views, with many possible construction opportunities. As it is also a major source for recreational activities; building on Mark Twain Lake provides an opportunity for business owners and residents to capitalize on the lake’s popularity and attract visitors. By constructing structures, businesses and residents can take advantage of the beautiful surroundings and provide services to those that visit Mark Twain Lake.
Environmental Considerations When Building On Mark Twain Lake
Prior to any construction project or development on Mark Twain Lake great care must be taken to avoid any environmental issues or stress to the lake’s ecosystem. Due to this, there are some important considerations to make when developing projects on the lake. First, any projects must use building materials that are designed and approved to be environmentally friendly and in compliance with US ACE and EPA guidelines. Second, any land use in the area of development may need to be evaluated to ensure minimal impact to the habitat. Lastly, all of the materials used in construction and during operation must be managed in a safe and effective manner to reduce the chance of pollution.
What Types Of Structures Are Permitted On Mark Twain Lake?
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), there are four categories of structures on Mark Twain Lake that require an approval from the USACE before being constructed: docks, boathouses, houseboats, and single-family dwellings. All of these structures must be approved prior to construction, and all structures must abide by USACE safety regulations and rules.
What else Can Be Built On Mark Twain Lake?
Aside from the structures mentioned above, there are many types of projects that can be built on Mark Twain Lake. These include picnic areas, marinas, campgrounds, trails and boardwalks. In addition, it is possible to build recreational boating equipment such as personal watercraft, motor launches and kayaks can also be rented or launched on the lake.
Conclusion
Building on Mark Twain Lake is both possible and rewarding, but also requires thorough research and planning. It is important to be aware of the USACE regulations, environmental considerations and other issues that must be taken into consideration before beginning any project on the lake. With the right type of plans and permits in hand, building on Mark Twain Lake can yield spectacular rewards, just like Samuel Clemens’ beloved books.
