Welch Dam
Key Takeaway
Welch Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 70.9% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 268 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 71 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| NID ID | IA00446 |
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
WA & JW Welch
Private
Nearby Dams
Manneter Dam
Hardin, IA
Low Hazard 28 ftSteding Dam
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Low Hazard 29 ftWalters Dam
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Low Hazard 30 ftWiechmann/Rooks Dam
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Low Hazard 35 ftTjaden Dam
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Low Hazard 30 ftHoffman Dam
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Low Hazard 27 ftDakins Lake Dam (Original Dam)
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Significant Hazard 24 ftLower Pine Lake Dam
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Significant Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Welch Dam?
Welch 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 Welch Dam?
Welch Dam is owned by WA & JW Welch (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Welch Dam built?
Welch Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Welch Dam?
Welch Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Welch Dam?
Welch Dam has a dam height of 35 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.