Lake Ponderosa Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Ponderosa Dam is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 years old. Its primary use is other. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 50 ft (taller than 95.3% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 1,090 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 290 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | IA00972 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Poweshiek County Board of Supervisors
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Ponderosa Dam?
Lake Ponderosa Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Ponderosa Dam?
Lake Ponderosa Dam is owned by Poweshiek County Board of Supervisors (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Ponderosa Dam built?
Lake Ponderosa 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 Ponderosa Dam?
Lake Ponderosa Dam serves the following purposes: Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Ponderosa Dam?
Lake Ponderosa Dam has a dam height of 50 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 Ponderosa Dam last inspected?
Lake Ponderosa Dam was last inspected on June 1, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.