Humeston Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Humeston Reservoir Dam, located in Chariton, Iowa, is a vital water resource infrastructure primarily owned and regulated by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1916, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 670 feet, providing essential water supply for the region. With a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet, it serves both recreational and water supply purposes, covering a surface area of 37.4 acres and draining a 1.02 square mile watershed area.

Despite its historical significance, the dam's current condition assessment is poor, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in August 2019 revealed the need for improvements to ensure public safety and water resource management. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 18 feet, posing a potential risk in cases of high discharge. The risk assessment categorizes the dam as moderate, indicating the need for risk management measures to address safety concerns and ensure its long-term sustainability.

Given its critical role in water supply and recreational activities, the Humeston Reservoir Dam requires immediate attention to address its poor condition and mitigate potential hazards. Collaborative efforts between local and state regulatory agencies, such as the Iowa DNR, are essential to implement necessary upgrades and ensure the dam's compliance with safety standards. Climate and water resource enthusiasts are encouraged to monitor the dam's risk management measures and support initiatives aimed at preserving this important infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-CHARITON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

37.4

Drainage Area

1.02

Nid Storage

900

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.