Sparks Dam
Key Takeaway
Sparks 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 | 23 ft (taller than 13.3% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 490 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 71 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01448 |
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
Marion Sparks
Private
Nearby Dams
West Wolf Creek Subwatershed Site 35
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 41 ftWest Wolf Creek Subwatershed Site 34
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 28 ftWahlberg Dam
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 29 ftWest Wolf Creek Subwatershed Site 26
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 33 ftNeustrom Subwatershed Site M-3
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 25 ftNeustrom Subwatershed Site M-1
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 30 ftNeustrom Subwatershed Site M-5
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 39 ftMaxwell Dam
Woodbury, IA
Low Hazard 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sparks Dam?
Sparks 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 Sparks Dam?
Sparks Dam is owned by Marion Sparks (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sparks Dam built?
Sparks 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 Sparks Dam?
Sparks 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 Sparks Dam?
Sparks Dam has a dam height of 23 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.