Coralville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Coralville Dam, located in Iowa City along the Iowa River, serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction and recreation purposes.


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Summary

This Federal-owned gravity dam, completed in 1958 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, stands at a height of 132 feet and has a storage capacity of 420,960 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 500 feet and a maximum discharge capability of 244,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring structural integrity during severe weather events.

The dam's risk management measures include continuous monitoring, prioritizing activities to mitigate risks, and engaging with emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and support emergency preparedness. USACE regularly updates the emergency action plan for the dam and performs maintenance and repairs as needed to ensure its proper functioning. While dams cannot eliminate all flood risks, USACE works diligently to address various types of flood risk associated with the Coralville Dam, emphasizing the importance of community readiness and collaboration in managing potential emergencies.

As a hub for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Coralville Dam represents a vital component of Iowa's infrastructure, safeguarding against high hazard potential and ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities. With a focus on proactive risk management and public engagement, the US Army Corps of Engineers remains committed to protecting lives and property through effective dam operations and emergency preparedness efforts.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

100

River Or Stream

IOWA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

4050

Hydraulic Height

93

Drainage Area

3115

Nid Storage

420960

Structural Height

132

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

132
       
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.