Felton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Felton Dam, located in Red Rock Reservoir in Warren County, Iowa, was completed in 1966 and is owned and regulated by a private entity.


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Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 397 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Felton Dam is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, while also serving recreational purposes.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Felton Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. Even though it is uncontrolled, Felton Dam's spillway type allows for efficient water release and management, making it a crucial infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Despite being a private structure, Felton Dam plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and community, offering essential services for water storage, fire protection, and recreational activities. With its earth construction and soil foundation, this dam continues to be a vital asset for the surrounding area, providing both practical and leisurely benefits for residents and visitors alike. As a focal point for water management and conservation efforts, Felton Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in ensuring the well-being of both people and the environment.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

397

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

82

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.