Maxwell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Maxwell Dam, located in Woodbury County, Iowa, along the TR-WOLF CREEK in the city of MISSOURI RIVER, was completed in 1960 by USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 38 feet, with a length of 568 feet and a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Maxwell Dam is for fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond, serving as a crucial resource for water management in the region.

With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Maxwell Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's design, constructed primarily of earth and soil foundations, has proven to be reliable for its intended purposes. While the dam currently holds a not rated condition assessment, it continues to provide essential water resource management services for the local community.

Maxwell Dam's presence along the TR-WOLF CREEK contributes to the overall water infrastructure in the area, enhancing fire protection capabilities and supporting wildlife habitat. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Maxwell Dam stands as a testament to effective dam management and the importance of sustainable water practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

568

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.4

Drainage Area

0.53

Nid Storage

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.