Moeller Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Moeller Dam, located in Dow City, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1960, this earthen dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 354 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet. Situated on Paradise Creek in Crawford County, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Moeller Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is essential for fire protection and agricultural needs in the region. As a part of the Rock Island District, the dam serves as a vital structure for maintaining water levels and protecting against potential flooding events.

As an earth dam with uncontrolled spillways, Moeller Dam contributes to the overall ecosystem health of the area, offering recreational opportunities and supporting local wildlife. Managed by private owners, the dam showcases the importance of private-public partnerships in preserving water resources and adapting to changing climate conditions. With a focus on safety and sustainability, Moeller Dam remains a key feature in the water infrastructure of Crawford County, Iowa.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

354

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-PARADISE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.17

Nid Storage

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.