Boothe Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Boothe Dam, located in Warren County, Iowa, was completed in 1975 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and recreation.


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Summary

This private earth dam, with a height of 30 feet and a length of 390 feet, has a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.5 acres. It is regulated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Managed by the USDA NRCS, Boothe Dam poses a low hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it meets regulatory guidelines and is regularly monitored for safety. Despite having an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Boothe Dam presents an interesting case study in private dam management and the intersection of environmental regulations with recreational and agricultural needs. With its scenic location along Felters Branch of Middle River, the dam provides a valuable resource for the local community while also requiring careful monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

FELTERS BRANCH OF MIDDLE RIV

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

63

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.