Massner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Louisa County, Iowa, the Massner Dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this private earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 425 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.2 acres, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and undergoes regular inspections to ensure proper maintenance.

The dam, situated on TR-SMITH CREEK, is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While it does not have a controlled spillway, it meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped with emergency action plans. Despite its rural location in Elrick, the Massner Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental protection in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate science will find this dam a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure in action.

Managed by private owners with support from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Massner Dam showcases the collaboration between federal and state agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of vital water structures. With its simple yet effective design, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources for the benefit of local communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-SMITH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.