Combs Dam
Key Takeaway
Combs Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 23 ft (taller than 13.3% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 94 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 46 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01698 |
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
Bertrand O Combs
Private
Nearby Dams
Wagner Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Low Hazard 29 ftRhinehart Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Low Hazard 29 ftMc Clain Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Low Hazard 26 ftBernstein Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Low Hazard 27 ftBarclay Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Low Hazard 25 ftVogel Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Low Hazard 19 ftHoliday Lake Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Significant Hazard 50 ftBaker Dam
Poweshiek, IA
Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Combs Dam?
Combs 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 Combs Dam?
Combs Dam is owned by Bertrand O Combs (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Combs Dam built?
Combs 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 Combs Dam?
Combs Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Combs Dam?
Combs Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Combs Dam last inspected?
Combs Dam was last inspected on June 22, 1988. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.