Olmschied Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Olmschied Dam, located in Plymouth County, Iowa, was completed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and creating a small fish pond.


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Summary

This private dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is inspected and enforced by state authorities. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 480 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.7 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily constructed of earth with a soil foundation. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it meets state regulatory requirements for inspection and permitting. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation, although emergency action plans and risk management measures have not been reported.

Overall, Olmschied Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing essential services for fire protection and supporting local wildlife. With its location on the TR-West Branch Perry Creek, the dam contributes to the conservation and utilization of water resources in the area. As a key infrastructure maintained by private owners, the dam's safety and regulatory compliance are essential for preserving the surrounding ecosystem and ensuring water security for the community.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-WEST BRANCH PERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.7

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.