Shaw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shaw Dam, located in Des Moines, Iowa, is a privately-owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1969.


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Summary

With a height of 33 feet and a length of 250 feet, the dam serves primarily for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. It has a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres, with a drainage area of 0.06 square miles.

Managed by the Iowa DNR and regulated by the state, Shaw Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although its condition is currently not rated, the dam undergoes state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The spillway is uncontrolled, and the dam's foundation is soil-based, serving as a vital structure in the region for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.

Situated along the TR-Big Hollow Creek and the Mississippi River, Shaw Dam plays a crucial role in water retention and storage for the surrounding area. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam contributes to fire protection, stock maintenance, and ecological sustainability. As a key feature in the local landscape, Shaw Dam exemplifies the integration of infrastructure and natural resources management for the benefit of both water resources and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR-BIG HOLLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

38

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.