Saylorville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Saylorville Dam, also known as Saylorville Lake, is a gravity-type dam located on the Des Moines River in Iowa.


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Summary

Completed in 1975 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, but also supports recreational activities and water supply. With a height of 119 feet and a volume of 8.4 million cubic yards, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 641,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5,520 acres.

Despite the high hazard potential associated with the dam, a risk assessment conducted by the USACE in 2015 classified the risk as low due to the dam's well-designed, constructed, and maintained structure. However, there is a very remote risk of dam failure under extreme conditions, which could lead to devastating floods reaching depths greater than 15 feet in downtown Des Moines. To mitigate these risks, the USACE implements various risk management measures including regular updates to the Emergency Action Plan, coordination with state and local agencies, conducting emergency exercises, and continuous monitoring and maintenance of the dam.

In an effort to enhance communication and awareness of the dam's risks and management strategies, the USACE is developing a detailed communication plan and engaging with stakeholders, emergency managers, and the public. With a focus on proactive management and prevention measures, including updates to water control manuals and early reservoir releases, Saylorville Dam remains a crucial infrastructure for flood protection and water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

6658

Dam Height

119

River Or Stream

DES MOINES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

5520

Hydraulic Height

120

Drainage Area

5823

Nid Storage

641000

Structural Height

125

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

125
       
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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.