Davis Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Perrin Dam Greencrest Farms Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Davis Dam, located in Westerville, Iowa, along the TR-Grand River, was completed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 412 feet in length, providing fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.3 acres, Davis Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.
Owned privately and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Davis Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been inspected or assessed since October 1967. With its uncontrolled spillway type and a drainage area of 0.23 square miles, Davis Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the maintenance and management of small-scale earth dams.
As the only dam in the area designed for fire protection and recreational purposes, Davis Dam showcases the importance of proper inspection, maintenance, and risk management measures to ensure its long-term sustainability. With its unique location and purpose, this dam serves as a significant water resource infrastructure in Madison County, Iowa, attracting attention from both local authorities and environmental advocates alike.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
412 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
39 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
North River Near Norwalk
|
48cfs |
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.
Davis Dam