Lewis Robbins Reservoir Report
Nearby: Robbins Dam Midwest Oilseeds Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lewis Robbins is a private earth dam located in Van Meter, Iowa, designed by the USDA NRCS in 1967 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
This dam has a height of 29 feet and a length of 295 feet, with a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres. Situated on Tr- Panther Creek in Dallas County, it serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Owned privately, Lewis Robbins plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region, especially for fire protection and livestock needs. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, this structure represents a blend of traditional design and modern water management principles.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lewis Robbins offers insight into historical dam construction practices and their ongoing relevance in today's landscape. As part of the USDA NRCS portfolio, this dam showcases the agency's commitment to sustainable water infrastructure for diverse purposes, from fire protection to grade stabilization. With its location in the Rock Island District and a close proximity to the Tr- Panther Creek, Lewis Robbins stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
295 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Tr- Panther Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Grimes
|
183cfs |
Walnut Creek At Des Moines
|
10cfs |
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.
Lewis Robbins