Mc Dowel Dam #1
Key Takeaway
Mc Dowel Dam #1 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 | 40 ft (taller than 84% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 584 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 679 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 303 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1994 |
| NID ID | IA00576 |
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
Robert McDowell et al
Private
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mc Dowel Dam #1?
Mc Dowel Dam #1 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 Mc Dowel Dam #1?
Mc Dowel Dam #1 is owned by Robert McDowell et al (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mc Dowel Dam #1 built?
Mc Dowel Dam #1 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 Mc Dowel Dam #1?
Mc Dowel Dam #1 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 Mc Dowel Dam #1?
Mc Dowel Dam #1 has a dam height of 40 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 Mc Dowel Dam #1 last inspected?
Mc Dowel Dam #1 was last inspected on July 8, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.