Ward Dam

TR- SOAP CREEK· Appanoose, Iowa· Built 1990· Earth· 29 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Ward Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1990 and is 36 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.

Physical Details

Dam Height 29 ft (taller than 42.8% in IA)
Dam Length288 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage22 acre-ft
Normal Storage16 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1990 (36 years old)
NID IDIA02560

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

Lawrence Ward

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Ward Dam?

Ward 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 Ward Dam?

Ward Dam is owned by Lawrence Ward (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Ward Dam built?

Ward Dam was completed in 1990, making it 36 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 Ward Dam?

Ward 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 Ward Dam?

Ward 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.