Red Haw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Red Haw Dam, located in Lucas County, Iowa, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1934 by HALL ENGINEERING, this earthen dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 785 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 2,200 acre-feet, it serves as a source of water supply while also offering recreational opportunities across its 93-acre surface area.

Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Red Haw Dam is considered to have a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. Its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation contribute to its structural integrity, with regular inspections conducted to ensure safety. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, it remains a key feature along TR-Little Whitebreast Creek, supporting both environmental and recreational functions in the region.

Together with its scenic location in the city of Lake Ellis, Red Haw Dam represents a vital link in Iowa's water resource management efforts. As climate change continues to affect water availability and quality, structures like Red Haw Dam play a crucial role in ensuring a sustainable balance between water supply, recreation, and environmental conservation. With a moderate risk assessment rating, ongoing risk management measures are essential to safeguarding the dam and its surrounding ecosystems for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

785

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE WHITEBREAST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

93

Drainage Area

1.63

Nid Storage

2200

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.