Fairbank Dam
Key Takeaway
Fairbank Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1880 and is 146 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 3.1% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 290 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 413 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 413 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 70 acres |
| Drainage Area | 125 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1880 (146 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01939 |
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
City of Fairbank
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fairbank Dam?
Fairbank 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 Fairbank Dam?
Fairbank Dam is owned by City of Fairbank (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fairbank Dam built?
Fairbank Dam was completed in 1880, making it 146 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 Fairbank Dam?
Fairbank 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 Fairbank Dam?
Fairbank Dam has a dam height of 12 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.