Webster Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Webster Dam, located in Adel, Iowa, is a privately-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Iowa DNR.
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Summary
Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 280 feet along the TR-RACCOON RIVER. With a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, Webster Dam has a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, Webster Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The dam, with a drainage area of 0.34 square miles, plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With its uncontrolled spillway type and soil foundation, Webster Dam continues to be a key asset in maintaining the ecological balance and water resources in Dallas County, Iowa.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Webster Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental management, and regulatory oversight. As a significant feature along the TR-RACCOON RIVER, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable water utilization and the need for proactive risk assessment and management strategies to ensure the safety and resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-RACCOON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.34 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Raccoon River At Redfield
|
268cfs |
Raccoon River At Van Meter
|
1640cfs |
Beaver Creek Near Grimes
|
183cfs |
Raccoon River Near West Des Moines
|
1300cfs |
Middle Raccoon River At Panora
|
92cfs |
Des Moines River Near Saylorville
|
855cfs |
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.
Webster Dam