Doss Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kieser Dam Hansell Farms Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Doss Dam, located in Decatur County, Iowa, is a local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 450 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is to provide fire protection and serve as a stock or small fish pond, making it a valuable resource for the surrounding community.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Doss Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. Despite not being USACE-owned, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and soil foundations, ensuring its structural integrity. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam's regular state inspections and enforcement measures by the Iowa DNR contribute to its overall safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Doss Dam offers a fascinating look into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental regulation, and community resilience. Its presence along TR-BRUSH CREEK not only supports local fire protection efforts and aquatic ecosystems but also underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As a well-maintained and regulated structure, Doss Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies and local stakeholders in safeguarding precious water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BRUSH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
36 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Doss Dam