Mc Clain Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mc Clain Dam, located in Guernsey, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by USDA NRCS, this private dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 410 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.8 acres, Mc Clain Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. Despite being rated as having low hazard potential and a moderate risk level, Mc Clain Dam has not been given a condition assessment. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it is designed to handle moderate discharge levels.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by Mc Clain Dam's location on the TR-North Fork English River and its role in managing water resources for the surrounding area. With its diverse range of uses and history dating back to the late 1960s, this private dam is an essential piece of infrastructure for the community of Guernsey and Poweshiek County, Iowa.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH FORK ENGLISH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.8

Drainage Area

0.29

Nid Storage

44

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.