Montgomery Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thompson Dam Dessel Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Montgomery Dam, located in Cherokee, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 263 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, the dam serves to regulate the flow of the TR-Little Sioux River, providing crucial water resources for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Montgomery Dam is classified as a low hazard structure with a moderate risk assessment. Despite not being currently rated for its condition, the dam undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. While the dam does not have outlet gates or locks, it features an uncontrolled spillway to manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. With its strategic location and purposeful design, Montgomery Dam plays a vital role in supporting water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Montgomery Dam, they can appreciate its historical significance and engineering prowess in providing essential services for the community. With its earth construction and soil foundation, the dam showcases a blend of nature and human intervention to create a sustainable water management system. By understanding the dam's design, purpose, and regulatory oversight, enthusiasts can glean valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure development, environmental protection, and climate adaptation in the context of water resources management.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
263 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.37 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Montgomery Dam