Rasmussen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smith Dam Hickory Grove Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Rasmussen Dam, located in Maxwell, Iowa, was completed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes such as fire protection and small fish pond.
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Summary
This private dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is designed to hold a maximum storage capacity of 71 acre-feet with a normal storage capacity of 41 acre-feet. With a dam height of 28 feet and length of 300 feet, Rasmussen Dam sits on TR-East Indian Creek and covers a surface area of 5 acres within a drainage area of 0.71 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Rasmussen Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a level of risk that requires some attention. The last inspection of the dam took place in 1989, and its condition assessment is currently not rated. While the dam has not undergone modifications in recent years, it is important for authorities to ensure that the dam meets safety guidelines and that emergency action plans are updated and in place. Overall, Rasmussen Dam represents a vital water resource in Story County, Iowa, and highlights the importance of monitoring and maintaining infrastructure to mitigate climate-related risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.71 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Indian Creek Near Mingo
|
79cfs |
South Skunk River Below Squaw Creek Near Ames
|
130cfs |
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.
Rasmussen Dam