Mississippi River Lock And Dam 17 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 17, also known as Pool 17, is a vital structure located in Iowa along the Mississippi River.


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Summary

Built in 1939 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this concrete dam serves the primary purpose of navigation, with a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a structural height of 47 feet. The dam spans 3,510 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 50,000 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 370,000 cubic feet per second.

This dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and preventing flooding along the Mississippi River. With a hazard potential classified as significant, the US Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors and manages flood risks associated with the dam. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure its structural integrity, and an emergency action plan is in place to respond to any dam-related emergencies effectively.

In the event of severe weather or increased water flow, the dam may release water to maintain its stability. The US Army Corps of Engineers collaborates with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and readiness for potential emergencies. Ultimately, Mississippi River Lock and Dam 17 stands as a key infrastructure for navigation and flood control, safeguarding the surrounding areas along the river.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

3510

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8312

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

99600

Nid Storage

50000

Structural Height

47

Outlet Gates

Roller - 3, Tainter (radial) - 8, Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

47
       
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.