When Was Saylorville Dam Built?

Construction of the Saylorville Dam was authorized by Congress in 1958. Excavation began at the site in July 1965, becoming fully operational in September 1977. The dam itself is 6,750 feet (2,057 m) long, 105 feet (32 m) tall, and 44 feet (13 m) wide at the top.

When was Saylorville Lake created?

Learn more (PDF) about the Frequently Asked Questions and why Saylorville Lake was built and put into operation in 1977. Learn more (PDF) about Saylorville Lake reservoir operations and why the lake must also be operated to ensure its flood-storage pool does not impact areas above the lake.

Is Saylorville man made?

Saylorville Lake is a man-made reservoir located on the Des Moines River bordering the town of Polk City, about 11 miles north of Des Moines, Iowa. The reservoir was completed in 1977 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in a flood control project for an area that had seen five major floods in the previous ...