Crystal Lake Dam

TR-CHARITON RIVER· Lucas, Iowa· Built 1915· Earth· 27 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Crystal Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 27 ft (taller than 30.7% in IA)
Dam Length558 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage500 acre-ft
Surface Area77 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1915 (111 years old)
NID IDIA01697

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: May 25, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Lakeview Golf & Country Club

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal 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 Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal Lake Dam is owned by Lakeview Golf & Country Club (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Crystal Lake Dam built?

Crystal Lake Dam was completed in 1915, making it 111 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 Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal Lake 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 Crystal Lake Dam?

Crystal Lake Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Crystal Lake Dam last inspected?

Crystal Lake Dam was last inspected on May 25, 2017. 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.