Mississippi River Locks And Dam 15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mississippi River Locks and Dam 15, also known as Pool 15, is a federal-owned structure located in Scott County, Iowa.


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Summary

Completed in 1934, this concrete gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes on the Mississippi River. With a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 41 feet, the dam spans 1606 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 30,000 acre-feet.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 1203 feet and includes two locks, each measuring 600 feet in length and 110 feet in width. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is equipped with an emergency action plan, regularly updated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, to manage flood risks associated with the structure. Through continuous monitoring, maintenance, and collaboration with local emergency managers, the USACE works diligently to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and mitigate potential risks to surrounding areas.

As a critical infrastructure on the Mississippi River, Locks and Dam 15 plays a vital role in regulating water levels and facilitating navigation along the waterway. With a comprehensive risk management approach in place, including regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and public outreach, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding water resources and addressing climate-related challenges in the region.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

1606

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

3740

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

88500

Nid Storage

30000

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

Roller - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.