Ball Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ball Dam, located in Davis County, Iowa, was completed in 1978 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and creating a small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 260 feet, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. Situated on TR-SOAP CREEK, the dam is regulated by the Iowa DNR and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Ball Dam is considered to be in good condition and poses minimal risk to surrounding areas. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and is designed to manage a drainage area of 0.12 square miles. While it does not have any outlet gates or locks, the dam is equipped to handle emergency situations, although details on the emergency action plan are currently unavailable. Overall, Ball Dam is a vital resource for the local community, providing essential water storage and wildlife habitat.

As a private-owned structure, Ball Dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem by providing water for firefighting, livestock, and recreational fishing. Its location in Floris, Iowa makes it a valuable asset for the community, contributing to water conservation efforts and enhancing the natural landscape. With ongoing inspections and compliance with state regulations, Ball Dam continues to serve its purpose effectively while minimizing risks and ensuring the safety of its surroundings.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-SOAP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

55

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.