Lake Ellis Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Ellis Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1993 and is 33 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 38 ft (taller than 80.1% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 803 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 80 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1993 (33 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01358 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Chariton Municipal Utilities
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lake Morris Dam
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Low Hazard 21 ftLake Morris Erosion Control Site 1
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Low Hazard 32 ftLake Morris Erosion Control Site 7
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Low Hazard 35 ftLake Morris Erosion Control Site 5
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Low Hazard 31 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis 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 Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis Dam is owned by Chariton Municipal Utilities (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Ellis Dam built?
Lake Ellis Dam was completed in 1993, making it 33 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 Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis 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 Lake Ellis Dam?
Lake Ellis Dam has a dam height of 38 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 Ellis Dam last inspected?
Lake Ellis Dam was last inspected on July 22, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.