Ames Basin #4
Key Takeaway
Ames Basin #4 is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1985 and is 41 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 12 ft (taller than 3.1% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 1,270 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 129 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1985 (41 years old) |
| NID ID | IA02394 |
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
City of Ames Public Works
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Ames Basin #2
Story, IA
High Hazard 13 ftAmes Basin #3
Story, IA
High Hazard 10 ftCarver Dam
Story, IA
Low Hazard 26 ftArnold Lake Dam
Story, IA
Low Hazard 36 ftBallard Country Club Dam
Story, IA
Low Hazard 33 ftNorthridge Heights Dam
Story, IA
Significant Hazard 19 ftOlson Dam
Story, IA
Low Hazard 24 ftElliott Dam
Story, IA
Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ames Basin #4?
Ames Basin #4 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 Ames Basin #4?
Ames Basin #4 is owned by City of Ames Public Works (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ames Basin #4 built?
Ames Basin #4 was completed in 1985, making it 41 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 Ames Basin #4?
Ames Basin #4 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ames Basin #4?
Ames Basin #4 has a dam height of 12 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 Ames Basin #4 last inspected?
Ames Basin #4 was last inspected on June 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.