Sargent Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sargent Dam, located in Davis County, Iowa, was completed in 1976 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 24 feet high and spans 280 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Sargent Dam is for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors.

Managed by a private entity, Sargent Dam is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam provides essential water resource management for the TR-SOUTH WYNACONDAH river or stream. Although the spillway is uncontrolled, the dam remains a vital infrastructure for the area, serving multiple purposes and offering environmental benefits for the local ecosystem.

Sargent Dam's location in the city of STILES plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting wildlife. As a key feature in the Kansas City District, this dam is an integral part of the region's water resource infrastructure. With a focus on sustainability and effective risk management, Sargent Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH WYNACONDAH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.1

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

86

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.