Big Hollow Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Hollow Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 2008 and is 18 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 60 ft (taller than 98.6% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 795 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 178 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2008 (18 years old) |
| NID ID | IA03551 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Des Moines County Conservation Board
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Big Hollow Dam?
Big Hollow Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Hollow Dam?
Big Hollow Dam is owned by Des Moines County Conservation Board (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Hollow Dam built?
Big Hollow Dam was completed in 2008, making it 18 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 Hollow Dam?
Big Hollow 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 Big Hollow Dam?
Big Hollow Dam has a dam height of 60 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 Hollow Dam last inspected?
Big Hollow Dam was last inspected on June 12, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.