Finch Dam

TR-SUGAR CREEK· Marion, Iowa· Built 1989· Earth· 26 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Finch Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1989 and is 37 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.

Physical Details

Dam Height 26 ft (taller than 24.7% in IA)
Dam Length240 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage33 acre-ft
Normal Storage18 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1989 (37 years old)
NID IDIA02621

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Marilyn Finch

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Finch Dam?

Finch 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 Finch Dam?

Finch Dam is owned by Marilyn Finch (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Finch Dam built?

Finch Dam was completed in 1989, making it 37 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 Finch Dam?

Finch 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 Finch Dam?

Finch Dam has a dam height of 26 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.

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.