Easter Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Easter Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 43 ft (taller than 89% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 1,860 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 218 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | IA00915 |
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
Polk County Conservation Board
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Easter Lake Retention Basin # 10
Polk, IA
Significant Hazard 22 ftEaster Lake Stormwater Retention Basin - Site 9
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High Hazard 24 ftSe Des Moines Stormwater Det. Dam #8
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Low Hazard 23 ftSe Des Moines Stormwater Det. Dam #5
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Low Hazard 19 ftSe Des Moines Stormwater Det. Dam #3
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Significant Hazard 34 ftSe Des Moines Stormwater Det. Dam #4
Polk, IA
Significant Hazard 26 ftEaster Lake Retention Basin #1
Polk, IA
Significant Hazard 18 ftSpence Dam
Warren, IA
Low Hazard 32 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Easter Lake Dam?
Easter 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 Easter Lake Dam?
Easter Lake Dam is owned by Polk County Conservation Board (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Easter Lake Dam built?
Easter Lake Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Easter Lake Dam?
Easter 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 Easter Lake Dam?
Easter Lake Dam has a dam height of 43 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 Easter Lake Dam last inspected?
Easter Lake Dam was last inspected on May 12, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.