Brenton Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Brenton Farm Dam in Adel, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 278 feet, providing a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-North Raccoon River, this dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is part of the state's inspection and enforcement programs, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Brenton Farm Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The dam's primary function is to provide fire protection and water supply for agricultural activities, contributing to the overall sustainability of the region. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam remains an essential component of the local water infrastructure, serving as a reliable source of water for various purposes.

Located in Dallas County, Iowa, Brenton Farm Dam's strategic placement allows it to effectively control water flow and provide storage during periods of high water levels. As part of the Rock Island District, this dam underscores the importance of proper water management practices in ensuring the long-term resilience of the community against climate change impacts. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Brenton Farm Dam in safeguarding water availability and supporting sustainable development in the region.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

278

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH RACCOON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.46

Nid Storage

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.