Axtell Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grundle Dam Smith Dam
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Axtell Dam, located in Fremont County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Constructed in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 539 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-West Nishnabtna River and is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Axtell Dam poses a moderate risk due to its age and lack of recent condition assessments. The dam is not currently rated for its condition, and emergency action plans are not readily available. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and assess the safety and functionality of dams like Axtell to ensure the protection of surrounding communities and ecosystems. With its unique location and purpose, Axtell Dam presents an opportunity for further research and conservation efforts in the field of water resource management.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
539 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST NISHNABTNA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.42 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Nishnabotna River At Randolph
|
349cfs |
Nishnabotna River Above Hamburg
|
762cfs |
Missouri River At Nebraska City
|
25100cfs |
Weeping Water Creek At Union
|
20cfs |
East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak
|
302cfs |
Little Nemaha River At Auburn
|
82cfs |
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.
Axtell Dam