Lake of Three Fires Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake of Three Fires Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 58.4% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 980 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 125 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01058 |
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
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
State Government
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake of Three Fires Dam?
Lake of Three Fires 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 of Three Fires Dam?
Lake of Three Fires Dam is owned by Iowa Department of Natural Resources (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake of Three Fires Dam built?
Lake of Three Fires Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 of Three Fires Dam?
Lake of Three Fires Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake of Three Fires Dam?
Lake of Three Fires Dam has a dam height of 32 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 of Three Fires Dam last inspected?
Lake of Three Fires Dam was last inspected on June 1, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.