Maxon Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Albia Reservoir Dam Possehl Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Maxon Reservoir Dam, located in Chillicothe, Iowa, is a private-owned structure built in 1984 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a dam height of 34 feet and a length of 445 feet, it provides a storage capacity of 311 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres. The dam is situated on Little Avery Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. However, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, with emergency action plans and inundation maps yet to be prepared. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has no outlet gates. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 0.85 square miles, making it crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the dam's condition and regulatory compliance to ensure the safety of the community and the environment.
Overall, Maxon Reservoir Dam serves as a vital water resource for recreational activities in the area, but its maintenance and risk management measures need to be closely monitored. With its location in Monroe County, Iowa, the dam's proximity to residential areas underscores the importance of regular inspections and enforcement of safety protocols. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the resilience and sustainability of structures like Maxon Reservoir Dam will be essential for ensuring water security and environmental protection in the region.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
445 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE AVERY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.85 |
Nid Storage |
311 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Creek Near Bussey
|
11cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
14cfs |
Des Moines River Near Tracy
|
1400cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
English Creek Near Knoxville
|
2cfs |
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
|
485cfs |
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.
Maxon Reservoir Dam