Kent Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Kent Dam, located in Norwood, Iowa, was completed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 524 feet, with a storage capacity of 225 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-South Otter Creek and is regulated by the Iowa DNR, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Kent Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Lucas County, Iowa. The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential water resources for fire protection and agricultural needs in the area. Its location on a small creek highlights the importance of micro-scale water infrastructure in maintaining local water supply and enhancing climate resilience.

Overall, Kent Dam serves as a key asset for water management in the region, helping to mitigate flooding risks and ensure water availability for various purposes. With its controlled spillway and state-regulated operations, the dam is a critical piece of infrastructure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

524

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.5

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

225

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.