International Airport Dam
Key Takeaway
International Airport Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 45 ft (taller than 92.6% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 950 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 965 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 65 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,456 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | MO10661 |
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 KANSAS CITY MO
Local Government
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High Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of International Airport Dam?
International Airport 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 International Airport Dam?
International Airport Dam is owned by CITY OF KANSAS CITY MO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was International Airport Dam built?
International Airport Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 International Airport Dam?
International Airport Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is International Airport Dam?
International Airport Dam has a dam height of 45 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 International Airport Dam last inspected?
International Airport Dam was last inspected on August 23, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.