Upper Pine Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Upper Pine Lake Dam in Eldora, Iowa, stands as a vital structure along Pine Creek, serving as a recreational hub since its completion in 1934.
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Summary
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam spans 490 feet in length and reaches a height of 42 feet, providing a storage capacity of 2,710 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a serene surface area of 110 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the Upper Pine Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential, prompting a moderate risk assessment. The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled structure with a width of 75 feet, plays a crucial role in managing water flow and maintaining the dam's integrity. Regular inspections, conducted every five years, ensure that the dam meets regulatory guidelines and remains safe for public use.
Located in Hardin County, the Upper Pine Lake Dam serves as a testament to responsible water resource management and the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is essential to continue monitoring and supporting initiatives that promote the safety and sustainability of dams like Upper Pine Lake for the benefit of both the environment and local communities.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
PINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
110 |
Drainage Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
2710 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Upper Pine Lake Dam