Olmstead Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Located in Polk County, Iowa, the Olmstead Dam is a private-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.


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Summary

Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 557 feet in length, with a primary purpose of providing fire protection and creating a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet, the dam sits on the TR-MUD CREEK, serving as a vital resource for the surrounding area.

Despite being rated as a low hazard potential structure, the Olmstead Dam has a moderate risk assessment score of 3. Although not currently assessed for condition, the dam has not had any reported incidents or inspections since October 1967. With its uncontrolled spillway type and minimal discharge capacity, the dam continues to provide essential services to the community while maintaining a relatively low level of risk.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the Olmstead Dam for its role in fire protection and fish pond creation in the region. With its historical significance and relatively low hazard potential, this earth dam serves as a valuable asset for water management in Polk County, Iowa.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

557

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-MUD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.9

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

159

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.