Big Creek Barrier Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Creek Barrier Dam is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 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 | 84 ft (taller than 99.8% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 4,550 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 4.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 85 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 125 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | IA00018 |
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
USACE - Rock Island District
Federal Government
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Significant Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Creek Barrier Dam?
Big Creek Barrier 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 Big Creek Barrier Dam?
Big Creek Barrier Dam is owned by USACE - Rock Island District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Creek Barrier Dam built?
Big Creek Barrier Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Big Creek Barrier Dam?
Big Creek Barrier Dam 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 Big Creek Barrier Dam?
Big Creek Barrier Dam has a dam height of 84 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 Big Creek Barrier Dam last inspected?
Big Creek Barrier Dam was last inspected on December 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.