Carrier Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Located in Lee County, Iowa, Carrier Dam was completed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and stretches 280 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. With a surface area of 4.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.14 square miles, Carrier Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by a private entity, Carrier 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 score of 3, this dam is essential for water supply, recreation, and environmental protection in the area. Although currently not rated for its condition, Carrier Dam remains a key infrastructure for maintaining water quality and supporting the local ecosystem along the TR-ALMAN CREEK.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of Carrier Dam in balancing the needs of agriculture, wildlife, and recreation in Lee County, Iowa. The dam's strategic location near the Mississippi River and its multiple functions highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region. By staying informed about the regulatory measures and risk assessments associated with Carrier Dam, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of this vital water resource infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-ALMAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.