Hoover Dam
Key Takeaway
Hoover Dam is classified as high hazard in Ohio. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 86 ft (taller than 98.5% in OH) |
| Dam Length | 2,583 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 145.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 72.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,073 acres |
| Drainage Area | 182 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 148,003 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | OH00737 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Columbus
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hoover Dam?
Hoover Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Hoover Dam?
Hoover Dam is owned by City of Columbus (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hoover Dam built?
Hoover Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Hoover Dam?
Hoover Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Hoover Dam?
Hoover Dam has a dam height of 86 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 Hoover Dam last inspected?
Hoover Dam was last inspected on June 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.