Elliott Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Elliott Dam, located in Story County, Iowa, was completed in 1968 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

With a height of 30 feet and a length of 288 feet, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.1 acres. Situated on the TR-Skunk River, the dam is owned privately and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, Elliott Dam is designed to withstand low hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Although the dam has not been assigned a specific condition assessment rating, it is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation, making it a vital resource for water management, especially in times of drought.

Elliott Dam's strategic location in the Rock Island District plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting local wildlife habitats. As a climate and water resource enthusiast, exploring the engineering and management practices of this dam can provide valuable insights into sustainable water conservation and environmental stewardship efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

288

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-SKUNK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.1

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

54

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.