Bedford Water Supply Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fairgrounds Dam Hardin Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bedford Water Supply Dam, located in Bedford, Iowa, was completed in 1969 and serves as a vital water supply source for the local community.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and stretches 890 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 598 acre-feet and a surface area of 30 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for the region.
Despite its fair condition assessment and significant hazard potential, the dam has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in April 2020. The risk assessment for Bedford Water Supply Dam indicates a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures. With its primary purpose being water supply, this dam on the TR-East Fork 102 River not only supports the surrounding area but also highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Bedford Water Supply Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intricate balance between infrastructure development and natural resource conservation. With its regulated status and significant hazard potential, this dam symbolizes the critical importance of maintaining and managing water resources in a sustainable and resilient manner. Its design by H Gene McKeown & Assoc and its location in Taylor County, Iowa make the Bedford Water Supply Dam a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of water supply infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
890 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST FORK 102 RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
0.69 |
Nid Storage |
598 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
44 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bedford Water Supply Dam