Dessel Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thompson Dam Pierce Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Dessel Dam, located in Cherokee, Iowa, along the TR-Little Sioux River, was completed in 1963 and is primarily used for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Owned privately, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Dessel Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Constructed by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Dessel Dam is an earth dam with a height of 35 feet and a length of 275 feet, providing a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, while its location within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures adherence to federal guidelines and standards. Despite not currently being rated for condition assessment, Dessel Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape and serves as a vital component in the area's water infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, Dessel Dam stands as a critical asset for water management and emergency preparedness in Cherokee, Iowa. With its strategic placement along the TR-Little Sioux River and its capacity for storage and flood control, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. As efforts to enhance resilience and adapt to changing environmental conditions progress, Dessel Dam remains a key focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and sustainability in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.26 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sioux River At Linn Grove
|
257cfs |
Ocheyedan River Near Spencer
|
59cfs |
Floyd River At Alton
|
36cfs |
Little Sioux River At Correctionville
|
327cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Floyd River At James
|
187cfs |
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.
Dessel Dam