Olson Dam
Key Takeaway
Olson Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 19.3% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 408 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 53 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 33 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | IA00341 |
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
Fred Olson
Private
Nearby Dams
Adamson Dam
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 23 ftHinebaugh Dam
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Low Hazard 24 ftJohnson Dam
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Low Hazard 32 ftSponsler Dam
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Low Hazard 20 ftGreenlee Dam
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Low Hazard 18 ftAcheson Dam
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Low Hazard 32 ftHumeston Reservoir Dam
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Significant Hazard 31 ftKieser Dam
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Low Hazard 23 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Olson Dam?
Olson 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 Olson Dam?
Olson Dam is owned by Fred Olson (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Olson Dam built?
Olson Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Olson Dam?
Olson Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Olson Dam?
Olson Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Olson Dam last inspected?
Olson Dam was last inspected on October 10, 1960. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.