Railroad Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Railroad Lake Dam, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1983, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 525 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet, the dam is situated on TR- BLACK HAWK CR., offering a surface area of 29 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Railroad Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in June 2020. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 8 feet and is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and integrity. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities in the area.

Considered a moderate risk (level 3) infrastructure, Railroad Lake Dam presents a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts to explore. Its location within the Detroit District and ownership by the local government make it a vital part of the community's landscape. As efforts continue to manage and maintain the dam, it stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and natural beauty in the heart of Scott County, Iowa.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR- BLACK HAWK CR.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Drainage Area

1.11

Nid Storage

750

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.