Harris Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Davison Dam Diamondhead Lake Dam
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Harris Dam in Iowa, completed in 1967, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
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Summary
Managed by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting. Located in Guthrie County along the South Raccoon River, the dam has a height of 46 feet and a length of 557 feet, with a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Harris Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The dam has not been rated for condition assessment, but its structural integrity and risk management measures are in place to ensure public safety. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, it meets regulatory guidelines and serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Harris Dam as a key piece of infrastructure in Iowa. Its role in providing fire protection, stock, and small fish pond services underscores its importance in the region's water management efforts. With a focus on safety and risk management, the dam stands as a testament to responsible stewardship of water resources in Guthrie County.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
557 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH RACCOON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.48 |
Nid Storage |
136 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
Middle Raccoon River Near Bayard
|
121cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
North Raccoon River Near Jefferson
|
530cfs |
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.
Harris Dam
Lake Panorama At Panora