Burhans Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jorgensen Dam Sinnwell Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Burhans Dam, located in Martensdale, Iowa, was completed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation.
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Summary
This private dam, with a height of 34 feet and a length of 438 feet, has a storage capacity of 47 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres. Situated on TR-Clanton Creek, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level, Burhans Dam does not have a current condition assessment. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it has not undergone any modifications in recent years. The surrounding area is at a low risk of inundation, and there are no emergency action plans in place. The dam is not owned or funded by federal agencies, but it meets state regulatory requirements and is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and integrity.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Burhans Dam will appreciate its design and construction details, as well as its role in providing essential services to the local community. With its focus on fire protection and recreational opportunities, this earth dam on Clanton Creek showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in Iowa. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam's operational and regulatory measures ensure its continued functionality and safety for years to come.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
438 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CLANTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
47 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Middle River Near Indianola
|
48cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
South River Near Ackworth
|
18cfs |
Raccoon River At 63rd Street At Des Moines
|
587cfs |
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.
Burhans Dam