Nora Springs Low Head Dam
Key Takeaway
Nora Springs Low Head Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1895 and is 131 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 3.1% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 70 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 500 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1895 (131 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1964 |
| NID ID | IA04082 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Nora Springs
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 8 ftNorth Iowa Comm. College Dam
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Low Hazard 25 ftOld Quarry Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nora Springs Low Head Dam?
Nora Springs Low Head Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Nora Springs Low Head Dam?
Nora Springs Low Head Dam is owned by City of Nora Springs (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nora Springs Low Head Dam built?
Nora Springs Low Head Dam was completed in 1895, making it 131 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 Nora Springs Low Head Dam?
Nora Springs Low Head 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 Nora Springs Low Head Dam?
Nora Springs Low Head Dam has a dam height of 12 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.