Lake Wapello Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Wapello Dam, located in Floris, Iowa, is a state-owned structure managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Constructed in 1934, this earth dam stands at a height of 57 feet and spans 1500 feet along Pee Dee Creek. With a storage capacity of 7610 acre-feet, the dam primarily serves as a recreational area with a surface area of 287 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 67 feet, adds to the scenic beauty of the area while also serving its essential purpose. Despite being classified with a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is deemed satisfactory, as of the last assessment in June 2017. Regular inspections and enforcement by the Iowa DNR ensure the safety and integrity of Lake Wapello Dam, offering peace of mind to visitors and nearby residents.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Davis County, Iowa, Lake Wapello Dam presents a moderate risk level with moderate risk management measures in place. The dam's role in providing recreational opportunities and water resource management underscores its importance in the local community and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of conservation efforts in the state.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

Pee Dee Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

287

Drainage Area

7.98

Nid Storage

7610

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

57
       
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.