Ridgley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Miller Dam Boeck Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ridgley Dam, located in Arion, Iowa, was completed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS and is privately owned.
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Summary
The dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 395 feet, Ridgley Dam has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres. It is situated on Walnut Creek in Crawford County and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as a low-hazard dam, Ridgley Dam is subject to moderate risk due to its condition assessment being not rated. The dam has not been inspected recently, and its emergency action plan status is unknown. While there are no outlet gates or locks associated with the dam, it has an uncontrolled spillway. Overall, Ridgley Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area and serves as a vital structure in the local ecosystem.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intricacies of dam construction and management will find Ridgley Dam to be a fascinating case study. With its unique design by the USDA NRCS, multiple purposes, and moderate risk assessment, the dam presents a blend of challenges and opportunities for sustainable water resource management. Its location on Walnut Creek adds to its significance in the region, making Ridgley Dam an essential component of the local water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
395 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WALNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River At Mapleton
|
323cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Sac City
|
312cfs |
Boyer River At Logan
|
417cfs |
Soldier River At Pisgah
|
112cfs |
Little Sioux River Near Turin
|
1040cfs |
Monona-Harrison Ditch Near Turin
|
158cfs |
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.
Ridgley Dam