West Lenox Reservoir Dam

TR-MIDDLE PLATTE RIVER· Taylor, Iowa· Built 1913· Earth· 25 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

West Lenox Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Iowa. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 25 ft (taller than 19.3% in IA)
Dam Length550 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage142 acre-ft
Normal Storage61 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1913 (113 years old)
NID IDIA01375

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 29, 1992
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: IOWA DNR

Ownership

City of Lenox

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of West Lenox Reservoir Dam?

West Lenox Reservoir Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates West Lenox Reservoir Dam?

West Lenox Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Lenox (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was West Lenox Reservoir Dam built?

West Lenox Reservoir Dam was completed in 1913, making it 113 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 Lenox Reservoir Dam?

West Lenox Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is West Lenox Reservoir Dam?

West Lenox Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 25 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 West Lenox Reservoir Dam last inspected?

West Lenox Reservoir Dam was last inspected on May 29, 1992. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.