Red Haw Dam
Key Takeaway
Red Haw Dam is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 43 ft (taller than 89% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 785 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 93 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1995 |
| NID ID | IA01357 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
State Government
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Red Haw Dam?
Red Haw Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Red Haw Dam?
Red Haw Dam is owned by Iowa Department of Natural Resources (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Red Haw Dam built?
Red Haw Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Red Haw Dam?
Red Haw Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Red Haw Dam?
Red Haw Dam has a dam height of 43 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 Red Haw Dam last inspected?
Red Haw Dam was last inspected on August 5, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.