Virden Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Virden Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1979 and is 47 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 39 ft (taller than 82.4% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 3,040 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1979 (47 years old) |
| NID ID | IA01972 |
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
City of Waterloo
Local Government
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High Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Virden Creek Dam?
Virden Creek 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 Virden Creek Dam?
Virden Creek Dam is owned by City of Waterloo (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Virden Creek Dam built?
Virden Creek Dam was completed in 1979, making it 47 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 Virden Creek Dam?
Virden Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Virden Creek Dam?
Virden Creek Dam has a dam height of 39 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 Virden Creek Dam last inspected?
Virden Creek Dam was last inspected on June 26, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.