Izaak Walton Lake Dam

TR-HONEY CREEK· Des Moines, Iowa· Built 1921· Earth· 22 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Izaak Walton Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 22 ft (taller than 10.6% in IA)
Dam Length450 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage140 acre-ft
Normal Storage75 acre-ft
Surface Area12 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1921 (105 years old)
NID IDIA01882

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

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

Des Moines County Board of Supervisors

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Izaak Walton Lake Dam?

Izaak Walton Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Izaak Walton Lake Dam?

Izaak Walton Lake Dam is owned by Des Moines County Board of Supervisors (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Izaak Walton Lake Dam built?

Izaak Walton Lake Dam was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 Izaak Walton Lake Dam?

Izaak Walton Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Izaak Walton Lake Dam?

Izaak Walton Lake Dam has a dam height of 22 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.