Glissman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Located in Van Meter, Iowa, Glissman Dam is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

With a height of 37 feet and a length of 657 feet, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. Situated on the TR-South Raccoon River, the dam has a storage capacity of 123 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres, with a drainage area of 0.6 square miles.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Glissman Dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk (3) and has not been rated for its condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and is equipped with soil foundations, making it an essential component in the water resource management system in Dallas County, Iowa.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Glissman Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental conservation. As a vital infrastructure for fire protection and aquatic habitat, the dam exemplifies the balance between human needs and ecological stewardship. With its strategic location on the South Raccoon River and meticulous regulatory oversight, Glissman Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

657

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH RACCOON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

123

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.