Spirit Lake Near Orleans Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Spirit Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in Orleans, Iowa.


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Summary

The lake is a popular destination for recreational activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. It has a long history, having been formed over 13,000 years ago by glacial activity. The lake is fed by several small streams and has a drainage area of 86 square miles. The lake's water quality is closely monitored by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and efforts are underway to improve water quality in the lake. The lake also serves as a critical source of water for agricultural irrigation and provides valuable snowpack for winter sports like snowmobiling and skiing. The lake is an integral part of the economy and culture of the surrounding communities in Iowa.

Reservoir Details

Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change -0.14%
Percent of Normal 104%
Minimum 12.07 ft
2021-12-06
Maximum 15.96 ft
2018-07-05
Average 14 ft
       
Seasonal Comparison
Temperature, Water, °C Levels
Gage Height, Ft Levels

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.