Lake Panorama Dam

MIDDLE RACCOON RIVER· Guthrie, Iowa· Built 1969· Earth· 70 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Water Supply Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Panorama Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 70 ft (taller than 99.6% in IA)
Dam Length815 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage60.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage19.7K acre-ft
Surface Area1,260 acres
Drainage Area440 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1969 (57 years old)
NID IDIA00415

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: May 8, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Lake Panorama Recreation Association

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Panorama Dam?

Lake Panorama 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 Panorama Dam?

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

When was Lake Panorama Dam built?

Lake Panorama Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Panorama Dam?

Lake Panorama 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 Panorama Dam?

Lake Panorama Dam has a dam height of 70 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 Panorama Dam last inspected?

Lake Panorama Dam was last inspected on May 8, 2017. 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.