Southfork Dam
Key Takeaway
Southfork Dam is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1988 and is 38 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 38 ft (taller than 80.1% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 560 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 204 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1988 (38 years old) |
| NID ID | IA02411 |
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
Southfork Lake Lot Owners Assn
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Southfork Dam?
Southfork 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 Southfork Dam?
Southfork Dam is owned by Southfork Lake Lot Owners Assn (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Southfork Dam built?
Southfork Dam was completed in 1988, making it 38 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 Southfork Dam?
Southfork Dam serves the following purposes: Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Southfork Dam?
Southfork Dam has a dam height of 38 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 Southfork Dam last inspected?
Southfork Dam was last inspected on March 12, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.