Adams Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Adams Dam, located in Boone, Iowa along the Des Moines River, was completed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS and is currently privately owned.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 37 feet and a length of 176 feet, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. The dam has a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 31 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres.

The dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the spillway is uncontrolled, there are no outlet gates or associated structures. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 0.09 square miles, making Adams Dam a crucial resource for water management in the region. With its strategic location and design, Adams Dam plays a vital role in maintaining water resources and climate resilience in the area.

As a key feature along the Des Moines River, Adams Dam is a testament to effective water resource management and serves as a valuable asset for the community. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition and continues to fulfill its primary purposes efficiently. With the support of the Iowa DNR and USDA NRCS, Adams Dam stands as a reliable structure for fire protection, livestock management, and ecological conservation, contributing to the sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem and providing a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

176

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TR-DES MOINES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

42

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.