Helmers Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Leckband Dam Lake Bella
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Helmers Dam, located in Osceola County, Iowa, is a private earth dam constructed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS for purposes of fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.
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Summary
With a height of 30 feet and a length of 480 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres. Situated on the TR-OCHEYDAN River, the dam is regulated and permitted by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Helmers Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam does not have an official condition assessment rating, and its emergency action plan (EAP) status is currently unknown. With no recent inspection data available, the dam is subject to regular state enforcement and inspection to ensure its structural integrity and functionality in case of emergency. As a vital resource for water management in the region, Helmers Dam plays a crucial role in providing fire protection and supporting local stock and fish populations.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams will find Helmers Dam to be a fascinating case study. With its unique design and purpose, this private earth dam serves as a critical infrastructure for the community of May City, Iowa. As efforts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, it remains an essential asset for water resource management and environmental conservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OCHEYDAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Helmers Dam