Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1
Key Takeaway
Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1888 and is 138 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 40 ft (taller than 84% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 292 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 24 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1888 (138 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01349 |
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
City of Fairfield
Local Government
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1?
Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 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 Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1?
Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 is owned by City of Fairfield (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 built?
Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 was completed in 1888, making it 138 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 Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1?
Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1?
Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 has a dam height of 40 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 Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 last inspected?
Fairfield Water Works Dam No 1 was last inspected on May 14, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.