Lake Of Three Fires Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake of Three Fires Dam, located in Taylor County, Iowa, was completed in 1967 and serves as a vital water resource for recreational activities and water supply purposes.
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Summary
Managed by the Iowa Conservation Commission, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans a length of 980 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 2,100 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-EAST 102 River and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its structural integrity and safe operation.
With a surface area of 125 acres and a drainage area of 6.15 square miles, Lake of Three Fires Dam provides a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water-based activities. The dam's spillway, with a width of 30 feet, allows for controlled release of excess water, mitigating flood risks and maintaining the dam's overall safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 deemed it satisfactory, with regular inspections conducted every five years to ensure its continued reliability.
Lake of Three Fires Dam not only offers recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in water supply management for the surrounding area. With its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's risk management measures are continuously evaluated to safeguard its long-term functionality and public safety. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of human activities with natural ecosystems in the heart of Iowa's scenic landscape.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
980 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST 102 RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
125 |
Drainage Area |
6.15 |
Nid Storage |
2100 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Lake Of Three Fires Dam