Twin Anchors Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Iowa Noname50 Hickory Grove Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Maxwell, Iowa, Twin Anchors Lake Dam is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earthen dam stands at 42 feet high and spans 508 feet in length, creating a surface area of 4.4 acres and a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated on TR-Dye Creek in Story County, Twin Anchors Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has not experienced any major modifications since its completion. While the dam is not owned or funded by any federal agencies, it is designed and inspected by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Twin Anchors Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for water and climate enthusiasts in the area.
Overall, Twin Anchors Lake Dam is a well-maintained and essential structure in Iowa, providing both recreational enjoyment and water resource management. With its dedication to safety and compliance, this dam continues to play a crucial role in the local landscape and ecosystem, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors and a valuable asset for environmental enthusiasts and climate advocates.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
508 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DYE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
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 |
Iowa River At Marshalltown
|
1040cfs |
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.
Twin Anchors Lake Dam