Saylorville Dam: Iowa Time Machine April 12, 1977

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On April 12, 1977, the gates of the Saylorville Dam closed for the first time. Built to protect Des Moines from devastating floods, the monumental structure proved its worth as gates were closed for the first time eight years later, when flooding on the river transformed Saylorville Lake into a vital barrier against nature’s fury. 

The floodwaters of 1984 poured in at an astonishing rate of 38,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), testing every aspect of the dam’s design. As water flowed safely through the spillway, erosion carved deep into the Pennsylvanian bedrock below, creating what is now known as the Saylorville Gorge. This moment marked a turning point in Iowa’s flood management history, showcasing how innovation could stand up to nature’s immense power. 

Since that pivotal year, Saylorville Dam has protected communities from catastrophic flooding, saving an estimated $174 million in damages over the decades. Improvements followed, including installing pneumatic crest gates after the historic floods of 1993. These gates allowed for even greater floodwater storage capacity, further solidifying the dam’s role as a guardian for Des Moines and surrounding areas.

From its first test in 1984 to its modern-day operations, this structure is a testament to Iowa’s commitment to protecting its people and landscapes from nature’s unpredictable forces. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar