Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11

MISSISSIPPI RIVER· Dubuque, Iowa· Built 1937· Concrete·
Significant Hazard Navigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length5,130 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage170.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area19,613 acres
Drainage Area81,600 sq mi
Max Discharge326,000 cfs
Year Completed1937 (89 years old)
NID IDIA00003

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: Yes
Last Inspection: June 4, 2024
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Rock Island District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11?

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 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 Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11?

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 is owned by USACE - Rock Island District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 built?

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11?

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 serves the following purposes: Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 last inspected?

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 11 was last inspected on June 4, 2024. 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.