Mississippi River Lock And Dam 18 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mississippi River Lock and Dam 18, also known as Pool 18, is a federal-owned structure located in Burlington, Iowa along the Mississippi River.


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Summary

Completed in 1937, this concrete dam stands at a structural height of 41 feet and has a length of 7330 feet. Its primary purpose is navigation, with a single lock measuring 600 feet in length and 110 feet in width. The dam has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment level (3), with the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) actively managing dam-related flood risks.

USACE implements various risk management measures for Lock and Dam 18, including continuous monitoring of the dam's condition, prioritizing activities to mitigate risks, and collaborating with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the dam's functionality and structural integrity. The dam's limited water storage capacity may lead to controlled releases to manage water levels upstream or downstream, especially during severe weather events. Despite its risk level, USACE's proactive approach and engagement with the community aim to enhance preparedness and response capabilities for any potential dam-related emergencies at Mississippi River Lock and Dam 18.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

7330

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

13600

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

113600

Nid Storage

90000

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

Roller - 3, Tainter (radial) - 14, Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

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.