Carter Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Carter Dam, located in Jefferson, Iowa, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of providing fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

Constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 428 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 22 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 57 acre-feet, the dam overlooks the TR-BRUSH CREEK, offering essential water management in the area.

Managed and regulated by the Iowa DNR, Carter Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities, ensuring its operational safety. While the dam does not have any associated structures or outlet gates, it plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flood risks and safeguarding the surrounding environment in Rome, Iowa.

With its strategic location and essential functions, Carter Dam serves as a vital asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As a key element in the local water infrastructure, the dam's construction, design, and regulatory oversight underscore its significance in providing sustainable water supply and protection against potential hazards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Carter Dam highlights the importance of robust infrastructure and responsible management practices in ensuring the resilience of our water systems.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

428

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-BRUSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.27

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.