Binder Lake Dam

TR-EAST NODAWAY· Adams, Iowa· Built 1942· Earth· 35 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Binder Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 35 ft (taller than 70.9% in IA)
Dam Length711 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage990 acre-ft
Surface Area79 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1942 (84 years old)
Year Modified1970
NID IDIA01332

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 7, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Corning Municipal Utilities

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Binder Lake Dam?

Binder Lake 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 Binder Lake Dam?

Binder Lake Dam is owned by Corning Municipal Utilities (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Binder Lake Dam built?

Binder Lake Dam was completed in 1942, making it 84 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 Binder Lake Dam?

Binder Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Binder Lake Dam?

Binder Lake Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Binder Lake Dam last inspected?

Binder Lake Dam was last inspected on June 7, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.