Davison Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Davison Dam, located in Guthrie County, Iowa, along the TR-South Raccoon River, was completed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 444 feet, providing essential fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, the dam serves as a crucial resource for the surrounding area, offering a surface area of 5 acres and a drainage area of 0.47 square miles.

Maintained and regulated by the Iowa DNR, Davison Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its last inspection in November 1967. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam ensures the safety and stability of its operations, although its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified.

Owned privately and situated in the city of Van Meter, Davison Dam serves as a vital water resource for the local community. With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, the dam not only provides water storage but also contributes to environmental conservation efforts in the region. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Davison Dam represents a harmonious blend of functionality, safety, and sustainability in the management of water resources in Iowa.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

444

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH RACCOON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.47

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.