Burlington Northern Dam
Key Takeaway
Burlington Northern Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 19.3% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 124 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 76 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01394 |
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
Burlington Northern Railroad
Private
Nearby Dams
West Lake Dam
Des Moines, IA
Low Hazard 21 ftIzaak Walton Lake Dam
Des Moines, IA
Significant Hazard 22 ftCarter Dam
Des Moines, IA
Low Hazard 31 ftWagner Dam
Des Moines, IA
Low Hazard 42 ftDes Moines County Roadgrade Dam 18-70-2
Des Moines, IA
Low Hazard 84 ftBohlen Dam
Des Moines, IA
Low Hazard 52 ftBurlington Y-Camp Dam
Des Moines, IA
Low Hazard 47 ftFritz Dam
Des Moines, IA
Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Burlington Northern Dam?
Burlington Northern 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 Burlington Northern Dam?
Burlington Northern Dam is owned by Burlington Northern Railroad (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Burlington Northern Dam built?
Burlington Northern Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Burlington Northern Dam?
Burlington Northern Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Burlington Northern Dam?
Burlington Northern Dam has a dam height of 25 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.