Bradford Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wuthrich Dam Bert Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bradford Dam, located in Wyacondah, MO, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 370 feet, providing fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet and a surface area of 9 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Bradford Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam has not been inspected recently, and there is no emergency action plan in place. However, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam continues to serve its primary purposes effectively. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the importance of maintaining and monitoring the infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource in Davis County, Iowa.
As part of the Kansas City District, Bradford Dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and soil foundation present unique challenges that require careful monitoring and maintenance. With a drainage area of 0.16 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, the dam plays a key role in managing water flow and storage in the TR-South Wyacondah watershed. Despite its age, Bradford Dam remains a critical piece of infrastructure for water resource management in Iowa, highlighting the importance of regular inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH WYNACONDAH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
128 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fox River At Bloomfield
|
7cfs |
Des Moines River At Ottumwa
|
1090cfs |
Des Moines River At Keosauqua
|
1800cfs |
Chariton River Near Moulton
|
34cfs |
Chariton River At Livonia
|
45cfs |
Chariton River Near Rathbun
|
14cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
McGowen Rec Area
|
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Lake Fisher
|
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Drakesville City Park
|
Bradford Dam