Mount Ayr Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Johnson Dam Greenland Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mount Ayr Reservoir Dam, located in Ringgold County, Iowa, is a key local government-owned structure designed for water supply purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans a length of 1200 feet, with a storage capacity of 1410 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Walnut Creek, the dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and significant hazard potential is managed effectively.
With a surface area of 78 acres and serving a drainage area of 4.05 square miles, Mount Ayr Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the region. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet, providing necessary flood control measures. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam continues to meet regulatory guidelines and is equipped to handle emergencies effectively. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mount Ayr Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water supply infrastructure in Iowa, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and management in ensuring water security for local communities.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WALNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
78 |
Drainage Area |
4.05 |
Nid Storage |
1410 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
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 Reservoir Dam