Prescott Flood Prevention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Prescott, Iowa, the Prescott Flood Prevention Dam is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1973 to address flood risk reduction along the TR-EAST NODAWAY river.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 510 feet, providing a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet for floodwaters. With a surface area of 5.5 acres and draining a 0.32 square mile watershed, the dam plays a vital role in managing water flow in the region.
Maintained and regulated by the Iowa DNR, the Prescott Flood Prevention Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 3 feet and undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity. Despite the moderate risk associated with the dam, it serves as a key asset in mitigating flood-related risks for the local community and surrounding areas, showcasing the importance of effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
As a primary flood risk reduction structure in Adams County, Iowa, the Prescott Flood Prevention Dam stands as a testament to collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS. With its strategic location and design, the dam not only protects the city of Prescott but also contributes to the overall water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in the region. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme events, structures like the Prescott Flood Prevention Dam play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the threats of flooding.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST NODAWAY |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.32 |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Prescott Flood Prevention Dam