Richardson Dam
Key Takeaway
Richardson Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1985 and is 41 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 29 ft (taller than 42.8% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 1,275 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 33 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 13 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1985 (41 years old) |
| NID ID | IA02265 |
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
Henry Richardson
Private
Nearby Dams
Massey Dam
Decatur, IA
Low Hazard 28 ftGoellner Dam
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Low Hazard 26 ftRyun Dam
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Low Hazard 28 ftJass Dam
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Low Hazard 26 ftAcheson Dam
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Low Hazard 32 ftSinclair Dam
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Low Hazard 28 ftGardner Dam
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Low Hazard 33 ftThompson Dam
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Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Richardson Dam?
Richardson 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 Richardson Dam?
Richardson Dam is owned by Henry Richardson (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Richardson Dam built?
Richardson Dam was completed in 1985, making it 41 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 Richardson Dam?
Richardson Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Richardson Dam?
Richardson Dam has a dam height of 29 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.