Colby Dam
Key Takeaway
Colby Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 26 ft (taller than 24.7% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 332 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 99 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 52 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | IA00907 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Charles Colby Jr
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Colby Dam?
Colby Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Colby Dam?
Colby Dam is owned by Charles Colby Jr (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Colby Dam built?
Colby Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Colby Dam?
Colby Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Colby Dam?
Colby Dam has a dam height of 26 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.