Phillips Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Phillips Dam, located in Sioux Rapids, Iowa, along the TR-WILLOW CREEK river, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of providing fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 210 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards.

With a drainage area of 0.38 square miles, Phillips Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Clay County, Iowa. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential hazards. The dam's location and design make it a vital component in maintaining water quality and quantity for both environmental conservation and human use in the region.

As a key structure in the Omaha District, Phillips Dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. Its role in fire protection and aquatic habitat support underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience. With state-mandated inspections and enforcement in place, Phillips Dam stands as a reliable and essential asset in the region's water infrastructure, safeguarding both natural ecosystems and human communities from potential risks and ensuring the sustainable use of this vital resource for generations to come.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

58

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.