Harris Dam

TR-SOUTH RACCOON RIVER· Guthrie, Iowa· Built 1967· Earth· 46 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Harris Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.

Physical Details

Dam Height 46 ft (taller than 92.5% in IA)
Dam Length557 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage136 acre-ft
Normal Storage84 acre-ft
Surface Area7 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1967 (59 years old)
NID IDIA00418

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
Last Inspection: November 15, 1967
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Harris & Sons Construction Inc

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Harris Dam?

Harris 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 Harris Dam?

Harris Dam is owned by Harris & Sons Construction Inc (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Harris Dam built?

Harris 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 Harris Dam?

Harris 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 Harris Dam?

Harris Dam has a dam height of 46 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 Harris Dam last inspected?

Harris Dam was last inspected on November 15, 1967. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.