Lake Wapello Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Wapello Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 57 ft (taller than 97.9% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 1,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 287 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2003 |
| NID ID | IA00301 |
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
Nearby Dams
Putnam Dam
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 33 ftBoy Scout Bay Dam
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 13 ftSoap Creek Watershed Site 26-67
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 25 ftEakins
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 27 ftSoap Creek Watershed Site 26-68
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 21 ftSoap Creek Watershed Site 26-71
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 27 ftSwaim Dam
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 20 ftNepple Dam
Davis, IA
Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Wapello Dam?
Lake Wapello 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 Wapello Dam?
Lake Wapello 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 Wapello Dam built?
Lake Wapello Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Wapello Dam?
Lake Wapello 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 Wapello Dam?
Lake Wapello Dam has a dam height of 57 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 Wapello Dam last inspected?
Lake Wapello Dam was last inspected on June 8, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.