Clarinda Mhi Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mc Cunn Dam Hayes Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Clarinda Mhi Dam, located in Clarinda, Iowa, was completed in 1961 by the USDA NRCS and is owned and regulated by the state of Iowa through the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
The dam, primarily designed for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes, stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches 435 feet in length. It sits on the TR-WEST NODAWAY RIVER, with a drainage area of 0.72 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 29 acre-feet.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Clarinda Mhi Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam's structure and design ensure its ability to effectively serve its purposes while mitigating risks. The dam's presence provides essential protection and support for the local community, wildlife, and environment, showcasing the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST NODAWAY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.72 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Clarinda Mhi Dam