Lake Delhi Dam

MAQUOKETA RIVER· Delaware, Iowa· Built 1922· Gravity· 55 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Delhi Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 55 ft (taller than 97.5% in IA)
Dam Length750 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage9.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage3.8K acre-ft
Surface Area440 acres
Drainage Area347 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1922 (104 years old)
NID IDIA01297

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
Last Inspection: July 9, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Lake Delhi Recreation Association

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Delhi Dam?

Lake Delhi 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 Lake Delhi Dam?

Lake Delhi Dam is owned by Lake Delhi Recreation Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Delhi Dam built?

Lake Delhi Dam was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 Lake Delhi Dam?

Lake Delhi 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 Lake Delhi Dam?

Lake Delhi Dam has a dam height of 55 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 Lake Delhi Dam last inspected?

Lake Delhi Dam was last inspected on July 9, 2020. 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.