Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hickory Grove Lake Dam Hertz Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Smith Dam, located in Maxwell, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 278 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is used for flood control on TR-East Indian Creek.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Smith Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. While it does not have any outlet gates or spillways, it serves as a vital resource for water storage and management in the region. The dam's location within Story County, Iowa, makes it a significant structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and study for its impact on the surrounding environment and community.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
278 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.53 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Skunk River Below Squaw Creek Near Ames
|
130cfs |
Indian Creek Near Mingo
|
79cfs |
Squaw Creek At Ames
|
53cfs |
South Skunk River Near Ames
|
92cfs |
Fourmile Creek Near Ankeny
|
9cfs |
South Skunk River At Colfax
|
211cfs |
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.
Smith Dam