North Woods Lake Dam

TR- POT HOLE CREEK· Decatur, Iowa· Built 1993· Earth· 57 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

North Woods Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1993 and is 33 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 Length745 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage990 acre-ft
Normal Storage764 acre-ft
Surface Area45 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1993 (33 years old)
NID IDIA02652

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: No
Last Inspection: July 2, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Lamoni Municipal Utilities

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of North Woods Lake Dam?

North Woods Lake 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 North Woods Lake Dam?

North Woods Lake Dam is owned by Lamoni Municipal Utilities (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was North Woods Lake Dam built?

North Woods Lake Dam was completed in 1993, making it 33 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 North Woods Lake Dam?

North Woods Lake 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 North Woods Lake Dam?

North Woods Lake 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 North Woods Lake Dam last inspected?

North Woods Lake Dam was last inspected on July 2, 2020. 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.