Gray Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gray Dam, located in Tama, Iowa, was completed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at 27 feet high and stretches 414 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Iowa River, it is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is classified as having a low hazard potential.
Despite being uncontrolled, Gray Dam poses a moderate risk (level 3) due to its age and condition assessment being listed as "Not Rated." While it has not been inspected recently, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unknown. With a drainage area of 0.92 square miles and a surface area of 8 acres, Gray Dam is a vital water resource in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in its historical significance and potential impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
414 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-IOWA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.92 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Timber Creek Near Marshalltown
|
37cfs |
Richland Creek Near Haven
|
12cfs |
Iowa River At Marshalltown
|
1040cfs |
Salt Creek Near Elberon
|
42cfs |
Walnut Creek Near Hartwick
|
13cfs |
Iowa River Near Belle Plaine
|
966cfs |
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.
Gray Dam
C Avenue Tama County