Eldred Sherwood Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Union Hill Wpa Dam Morse Lake
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Eldred Sherwood Park Lake Dam, located in Hancock County, Iowa, serves as a crucial structure for water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and stretches for 555 feet, providing a storage capacity of 360 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for purposes other than flood control or hydropower generation, making it a key component in maintaining the water levels of the East Branch Iowa River.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Eldred Sherwood Park Lake Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being currently rated for its condition, the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. With a surface area of 23 acres and a drainage area of 4.45 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in water storage and flow regulation in the region, contributing to the overall climate resilience and water resource sustainability of the area.
As an essential component of the water infrastructure in Belmond, Iowa, Eldred Sherwood Park Lake Dam remains a critical asset for managing water resources and adapting to the challenges of climate change. With its controlled spillway and soil foundation, the dam provides a reliable means of flood control and water storage, helping to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events and sustainably manage the water supply for the local community. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the importance of structures like Eldred Sherwood Park Lake Dam is crucial for promoting resilience and stewardship of our natural resources in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
555 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST BRANCH IOWA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Drainage Area |
4.45 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
Winnebago River At Mason City
|
166cfs |
East Fork Des Moines River At Dakota City
|
255cfs |
Des Moines River At Humboldt
|
401cfs |
Boone River Near Webster City
|
232cfs |
Des Moines River At Fort Dodge
|
1320cfs |
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.
Eldred Sherwood Park Lake Dam