Mc Aninch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Baker Dam Lawyer Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Mc Aninch Dam, located in Warren County, Iowa, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 1155 feet, with a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. The dam is primarily regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is used for water resource management in the TR-MIDDLE SOUTH CREEK watershed.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Mc Aninch Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating potential risks that need to be managed. The dam has not been rated for its current condition, but it is inspected and regulated by state agencies on a regular basis. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it meets state permitting and inspection requirements. The structure serves as a vital resource for the local community and plays a key role in water conservation and management efforts in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mc Aninch Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned earth dam with a unique primary purpose. Its location in a rural setting and its utilization for fire protection and aquatic life support make it an important asset in the region. With ongoing oversight from state regulatory agencies and a risk assessment pointing to moderate risks, the management and maintenance of Mc Aninch Dam serve as a focal point for discussions on water resource sustainability and climate resilience in Iowa.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1155 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIDDLE SOUTH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.67 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Mc Aninch Dam
Walnut Woods Drive West Des Moines