Isu Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Isu Dam, located in Chariton, Iowa, was completed in 1958 by the USDA NRCS and is owned and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 24 feet and a length of 426 feet, serves primarily for fire protection and as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water management for the Chariton River.

Despite being categorized as low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk, prompting the need for risk management measures. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and the dam has not been modified since its completion. Although the last inspection was conducted in 1960, the dam is still in operation and under state jurisdiction with regular inspection and enforcement in place, ensuring its safety and functionality for the surrounding area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Isu Dam an intriguing structure in the landscape of Lucas County, Iowa. With its significant role in fire protection and water storage, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the region. Its location on the Chariton River adds to its importance in flood control and ecosystem conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

426

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-CHARITON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

104

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.