West Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
West Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 8.8% in IA) |
| Dam Length | 320 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 51 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 15 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1921 (105 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1995 |
| NID ID | IA01881 |
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
City of Burlington
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 32 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of West Lake Dam?
West Lake 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 West Lake Dam?
West Lake Dam is owned by City of Burlington (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was West Lake Dam built?
West Lake Dam was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 West Lake Dam?
West Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is West Lake Dam?
West Lake Dam has a dam height of 21 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.