Iowa Noname59 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Iowa Noname59 is a dam located in Rathbun Reservoir, Wayne County, Iowa, serving as a crucial water resource for fire protection, livestock, and small fish ponds.


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Summary

It was completed in 1967 and is owned by the local government, with oversight from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 29 feet high and spans 490 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 46 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.4 acres.

The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential water supply for various uses, including fire protection and stock watering. Despite being classified as low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment, its condition remains unrated. With state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the Iowa Noname59 dam is well-maintained and meets safety guidelines. It plays a critical role in managing water resources in the area, ensuring sustainable usage for the surrounding community and ecosystems.

Located along the TR-Chariton River and within the Rock Island District, Iowa Noname59 contributes to water management efforts in the region. With a focus on environmental conservation and water supply sustainability, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for both human and ecological needs. As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam exemplifies responsible water resource management practices in Iowa, highlighting the importance of balancing human needs with environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-CHARITON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.4

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

46

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.