Gerlach Dam
Key Takeaway
Gerlach Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 53.8% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 265 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 47 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 24 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1978 (48 years old) |
| NID ID | IA02103 |
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
Duane Gerlach
Private
Nearby Dams
Garton Subwatershed M-4619
Buena Vista, IA
Low Hazard 27 ftIowa Noname66
Buena Vista, IA
Low Hazard 27 ftHaroldsen Dam
Buena Vista, IA
Low Hazard 35 ftLinn Grove Milldam
Buena Vista, IA
Low Hazard 9 ftWheeler Dam
O'Brien, IA
Low Hazard 37 ftWaterman-Spring Subwtrshd Sta 133+55 #2
Cherokee, IA
Low Hazard 24 ftWaterman-Spring Subwtrshd Sta 29+02 #1
Cherokee, IA
Low Hazard 33 ftYoung Dam
Buena Vista, IA
Low Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Gerlach Dam?
Gerlach 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 Gerlach Dam?
Gerlach Dam is owned by Duane Gerlach (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Gerlach Dam built?
Gerlach Dam was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Gerlach Dam?
Gerlach 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 Gerlach Dam?
Gerlach Dam has a dam height of 31 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.