Mount Ayr Game Area Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Mount Ayr Game Area Dam #1, located in Ringgold County, Iowa, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, as well as recreational activities.
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Summary
Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-LOTTS CREEK and is owned and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Mount Ayr Game Area Dam #1 has not been rated for its current condition. Although it has not been inspected since October 2003, the dam remains under state regulatory jurisdiction with regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement in place. While the dam does not feature a controlled spillway, its location near Hatfield, MO, provides a vital resource for water management, wildlife habitat enhancement, and outdoor recreation for the local community.
Overall, Mount Ayr Game Area Dam #1 stands as a significant water resource infrastructure in the region, contributing to the conservation efforts and providing essential services for fire protection, fisheries, and recreational opportunities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam's history, design, and operational details offer valuable insights into sustainable water management practices and showcase the collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies in ensuring the safety and efficacy of these vital structures.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LOTTS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Mount Ayr Game Area Dam #1