Nodaway Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Nodaway Lake Dam, located in Mt.
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Summary
Etna, Iowa, is a vital water resource structure owned by the local government and regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Completed in 1936, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 650 feet, providing a storage capacity of 550 acre-feet for water supply purposes. The dam overlooks the TR-Middle Nodaway River and serves the surrounding area with a normal storage capacity of 290 acre-feet.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment, Nodaway Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet and is situated in a moderate-risk zone. The dam's location, design, and purpose make it a crucial component of the local water management infrastructure, contributing to the sustainability and resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation will find Nodaway Lake Dam to be a key asset in maintaining water supply and mitigating risks in the area.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIDDLE NODAWAY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
550 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
East Nishnabotna River Near Atlantic
|
143cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Middle Raccoon River Near Bayard
|
121cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
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.
Nodaway Lake Dam