Maffitt Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Maffitt Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1944 and is 82 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 79 ft (taller than 99.8% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 1,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 230 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1944 (82 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1985 |
| NID ID | IA01338 |
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
Des Moines Water Works
Public Utility
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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Maffitt Reservoir Dam?
Maffitt Reservoir 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 Maffitt Reservoir Dam?
Maffitt Reservoir Dam is owned by Des Moines Water Works (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Maffitt Reservoir Dam built?
Maffitt Reservoir Dam was completed in 1944, making it 82 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 Maffitt Reservoir Dam?
Maffitt Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Maffitt Reservoir Dam?
Maffitt Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 79 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 Maffitt Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Maffitt Reservoir Dam was last inspected on June 12, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.