Tom Steele Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Tom Steele Dam, also known as Steele Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Rock Island, Illinois, near the city of Buffalo, IA.
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Summary
Built in 2005 by designer Sam Doak, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes along the TRIB TURKEY HOLLOW CREEK, offering a surface area of 19.3 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. With a height of 58.5 feet and a length of 580 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 610 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 234 acre-feet.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the dam has a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type and a maximum discharge rate of 1113 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, inspections are conducted annually to ensure its safety and regulatory compliance. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and protect the surrounding community.
As a popular recreational spot in the area, Tom Steele Dam offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature while also raising awareness about the importance of proper dam maintenance and emergency preparedness. With its picturesque location and significant role in water management, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in safeguarding our valuable water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
2005 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
58.5 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB TURKEY HOLLOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.36 |
Nid Storage |
610 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
59 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Tom Steele Dam
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