Sels Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sels Dam, located in Van Buren County, Iowa, was completed in 1957 and is owned privately.


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Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 603 feet. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond use, providing a storage capacity of 126 acre-feet.

Managed by the Iowa DNR, Sels Dam is regulated and inspected by the state, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment. While it currently does not have a condition rating, the dam is considered to meet safety guidelines. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type, and having no outlet gates, the dam serves its intended purposes effectively.

Situated in a rural area, Sels Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its modest surface area of 6 acres and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, the dam serves as a vital resource for local water supply and agricultural needs. Its historical significance, combined with its practical functions, make Sels Dam a noteworthy structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

603

Dam Height

23

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

126

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.